Two distinguished Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumni, Mildred Graham and Rashan Ali, were recognized with the prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award during the FAMU National Alumni Association Convention in Tampa.
Both Graham and Ali, graduates of the School of Journalism and Graphic Communication (SJGC), have made significant contributions in their respective fields, embodying FAMU’s legacy of excellence and community engagement.
Mildred Graham, the longest-serving staff member of the reestablished FAMU College of Law, has played a pivotal role in connecting the law school with the community. Her outreach efforts have led to partnerships with numerous organizations, hosting programs that benefit not only the legal and educational sectors but also the broader society.
Graham’s initiatives, including volunteer opportunities for law students at key community institutions, have fostered a sense of civic responsibility among students while promoting engagement with pressing societal issues.
Furthermore, Graham’s dedication to guiding youth into the legal profession has resulted in a steady pipeline of prospective law students. Through initiatives such as the annual Teach-In activities at local schools, she has inspired countless students and recruited FAMU Law faculty and administrators to participate in community outreach efforts.
Graham’s leadership was particularly evident in 2021 when she spearheaded a comprehensive effort to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the reestablished law school. The celebrations, which included various events and fundraising activities, not only honored the school’s legacy but also raised substantial funds for scholarships and student-centered initiatives.
Beyond her contributions to FAMU, Mildred Graham’s involvement in community organizations, such as her lifelong membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., underscores her commitment to social impact and civic engagement. As a charter member of the Psi Theta Omega Chapter, Graham has actively participated in voter-registration drives, advocating for broader democratic participation among young adults and communities.
In parallel, Rashan Ali has distinguished herself as a multimedia personality with a passion for sports and empowering young women. A graduate of SJGC at FAMU, Ali has leveraged her platform to make a meaningful impact in the sports and entertainment industries. Her extensive career spans roles as a radio host, sports anchor, and television personality, showcasing her versatility and engaging personality.
Ali’s commitment to community empowerment is exemplified through her nonprofit organization, Sporty Girls, Inc., which encourages the development of life and academic skills in young girls through sports participation. Since its inception in 2006, Sporty Girls has positively impacted the lives of nearly 1,500 girls in the Metro Atlanta area, reflecting Ali’s dedication to nurturing confidence and leadership skills among young women.
Additionally, Rashan Ali’s creative endeavors, such as her children’s book “Piper Sky’s Pink Popsicle Shoes,” further underscore her commitment to inspiring others. Through storytelling, Ali encourages children to embrace their uniqueness and discover their inner magic.
Both Rashan Ali and Mildred Graham exemplify the spirit of excellence and service instilled by Florida A&M University. Their achievements not only highlight the university’s legacy of producing outstanding alumni but also underscore the profound impact of FAMU graduates in their communities and beyond.
