FAMU's Freshman Class of 2010 Reaches $40,000 Scholarship Endowment Goal

The historic class established the endowment fund in 2024 to combat college affordability and access challenges.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University's (FAMU) Freshman class of 2010 has reached its $40,000 scholarship endowment goal, marking a significant milestone in the class's commitment to supporting higher education access. The endowment, established in partnership with the FAMU Foundation, will provide scholarships for first-year, second-year, out-of-state, and graduate students at the university.

Why it matters

The achievement comes at a critical time, as undergraduate enrollment has dropped by more than 2 million students since 2011 and the average cost of attendance at public institutions has increased by over 36%. The endowment aims to address financial barriers preventing students from enrolling, unmanageable student loan debt, and support retention efforts to strengthen graduation rates, particularly for underrepresented populations.

The details

The class presented a $33,054.46 endowment check during FAMU's 2025 homecoming game. The fund provides scholarships for first-year students, second-year students, out-of-state students, and graduate students. The endowment was established as part of the scholarship initiative for the class's 15th year reunion celebration, with class organizers emphasizing that it represents more than a financial contribution, but an enduring legacy of educational access.

  • The class established the endowment fund in November 2024.
  • The class presented a $33,054.46 endowment check during FAMU's 2025 homecoming game.
  • The class reached its $40,000 scholarship endowment goal in 2026.

The players

Janell S. Massaline

An English Education graduate and a proud sixth-generation Rattler, as well as a descendant of one of the university's founding students.

Wayne King Jr.

A Business Administration graduate who believes that donating collectively with his class allows his funds to reach much further.

Shelby Avery

A Business Administration/MBA graduate and an out-of-state student who understands firsthand the importance of financial support in helping students stay in school.

FAMU's Class of 2010

The largest recorded freshman class in the university's 138-year history, with 2,201 students enrolled in the Fall 2010 semester.

FAMU Foundation

The organization that partnered with the class of 2010 to establish the scholarship endowment fund.

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What they’re saying

“As a proud sixth-generation Rattler and descendant of one of the university's founding students, it was without question that I give back to FAMU.”

— Janell S. Massaline, English Education graduate (EINPresswire.com)

“Donating to my beloved FAMU as an individual is great, but donating collectively with my class allows my funds to reach much further.”

— Wayne King Jr., Business Administration graduate (EINPresswire.com)

“This endowment milestone is especially meaningful because it allows our class to make a lasting impact and give back to the university that gave us so much.”

— Shelby Avery, Business Administration/MBA graduate (EINPresswire.com)

What’s next

The class continues to accept donations to grow the endowment fund and expand its impact. All contributions are made directly through the FAMU Foundation and are tax-deductible.

The takeaway

The FAMU class of 2010's scholarship endowment initiative reflects the university's broader mission of providing educational opportunities to students who might otherwise face obstacles to obtaining a college education. This achievement demonstrates the power of collective action and the lasting impact that can be made through sustained commitment to supporting the next generation of students.