ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Law honored more than
100 graduates at the 2026 Hooding Ceremony held May 7, at the Dr. Phillips Center
for the Performing Arts in Downtown Orlando.
FAMU leadership, College of Law faculty and staff, alumni, community leaders, family,
and friends came together to commemorate the time-honored tradition.
Sia Baker-Barnes, president of The Florida Bar, delivered the keynote address. In
a powerful message, she encouraged graduates to take their seats at the table and
stand strong as they face challenges.
President of The Florida Bar, Sia Baker-Barnes (left), FAMU President Marva B. Johnson,
Ph.D., and a guest.
“Some of these tables will welcome you with open arms,” said Baker-Barnes. “Some will
invite you, but not include you,” said Baker-Barnes. Some will resent you. And some,
Class of 2026, will reject you. It will happen to you at tables in courtrooms, in
boardrooms, and in spaces where decisions are made. And not if it does, but when it
does do not accept it. Do not internalize it. Reject it. Class of 2026, do not allow
yourselves to be limited by the limitations in other people’s heads.”
Baker-Barnes told graduates they are more than enough, and their brilliance, strength,
discipline, and innovation — everything the profession needs, they already possess.
FAMU President Marva Johnson, J.D., shared poignant perspectives of the College of
Law’s legacy – past, present, and future.
“We’re not just proud in the way that any university celebrates its graduates, we’re
proud in a way that only those who understand what this school endured and overcame
can truly be proud,” said Johnson. “This College of Law has its own testimony, and
you are the latest and finest chapter of it.”
Graduates could not contain their happiness at last week’s hooding ceremony. (Photo
special to FAMU)
Johnson also told graduates they stand at a pivotal point in history.
“You join a distinguished tradition of advocates and counselors, men and women who
were entrusted with upholding the rule of law and safeguarding rights and liberties
that define our democracy,” said Johnson. “You graduate at a consequential moment
in time. That is not just a light thing. That is a calling.”
Juris Doctor graduate Jossie Louis, who served as SBA Hooding and Graduation chair,
provided reflections on behalf of the class.
“What makes this moment so meaningful is not just that we made it, but how we made
it,” said Louis. “We leaned on friendships that became family. A family that became
part of our forever support system. We learned that strength does not always look
like having the right answer — it often looks like continuing to try when things just
feel uncertain. To the Class of 2026 — we did it. And not just that, we are ready.
Ready to lead, ready to serve, and ready to become true Rattlers for Justice.”
Interim Dean Cecil Howard and Amber Newsome, president, SBA. (Photo special to FAMU)
Also, during the ceremony, Cecil Howard, associate provost and interim dean, recognized
juris doctor graduate Kayla Carestia, Valedictorian for the Class of 2026, for her
outstanding academic achievements. He also recognized juris doctor graduate Amber
Newsome, president, Student Bar Association’s (SBA) 22nd administration for the 2025-2026
academic year, for her service and leadership.
Dean Howard, who also presided over the ceremony, shared a special message for graduates
online, prior to the event.
“FAMU Law graduates of the Class of 2026, I’m so excited for you,” said Dean Howard.
“Congratulations on all the hard work you’ve put in — everything you’ve endured over these past three
years. But guess what, that only makes you stronger and more resilient. I can’t wait
for you to pass the bar exam and become outstanding lawyers in the state of Florida
and beyond.”
Sisterhood was in the building at the College of Law Hooding Ceremony. (Photo special
to FAMU)
The graduates are now part of the more than 2,600 distinguished alumni of the reestablished
FAMU College of Law, who represent the legal profession at law firms, corporations,
government agencies, non-profit organizations, sports organizations, and other entities.
Media Contact
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu