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FAMU makes plans for a grand reunion of art, artists, alumni

Commencement weekend will feature moviemakers and more

TALLAHASSEE – It’s that time of year again – when scores of alumni return to Florida A&M University (FAMU) for the annual Weekend of Rededication (WORD). This year, from April 26-29, the plan is for graduates and friends to paint their alma mater orange-and-green on a backdrop that celebrates FAMU’s outstanding artists, authors and alumni.

In keeping with the theme, "Parchment, Pen, Canvas and Paint: A Celebration of Famous Florida A&M University Authors and Artists," the event will highlight the accomplishments of several FAMU graduates who have had a significant impact in the world of film, publishing and the visual arts. Additionally, other distinguished alumni who have left their mark in such fields as education, religion and sports will be honored.

"We are very excited about the focus of this year’s events," said Altha Manning, interim executive director of the Office of Alumni Affairs at FAMU. "It has been an outstanding year for such alumni as young filmmakers Rob Hardy and Will Packer, screenplay writer Greg Anderson and others FAMUans that we will be shining the light on during WORD Weekend.

"During this time in the life of the university, it is important to continue to celebrate our graduates and welcome them back home for a moment of rededication and recommitment."

An Inaugural Distinguished Alumni Lecture Series is scheduled for Friday morning with special guest speakers and FAMU graduates Anderson, Hardy and Packer of "Stomp the Yard," which debuted as the nation’s No. 1 movie. Later Friday evening, a speci al "Stomp the Yard, Stomp the Hill" step show exhibition is planned for Gaither Gymnasium.

Here is a look a few of the other 2007 WORD highlights:

-The 50- and 25-year classes will be honored

-A special exhibit of the paintings and murals of James Denmark, whose works are featured in the New York Metropolitan Museum of Arts, will be presented. Denmark will also speak about "the art of collecting art."

-The General Meeting of the National Alumni Association (NAA) will be held

-An alumni workshop, " A Clarion Call to Alumni for Rededication and Renewal: Appreciating What’s Good About FAMU" is planned

-Book signings will be held for 10 authors who are FAMU alumni.

The weekend will conclude with the April 29 Spring Commencement Exercises at the Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center. State Rep. Curtis Richardson will be the 9 a.m. speaker. Florida Sen. Al Lawson is scheduled to speak at the 1 p.m. ceremony.

For a full WORD Schedule of Events or for registration information, please visit www.famu.edu/alumniaffairs or call (850) 599-3861.

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