As we end this month filled with love, joy, history and tradition, our focus turns to those who serve their community with purpose and pride. In the College of Agriculture and Food Science, Lauryn Tellis stands out as a leading scholar and a shining representation of FAMU’s Finest.
This third-year food science major from Detroit, Michigan, didn’t choose FAMU; it chose her. As a second-generation rattler, she’s diving headfirst into campus life and finding her community.
“I often visited the university as a child,” Tellis said. “Although Florida is so far from Michigan, FAMU has always felt like home away from home.”
Tellis is driven by the opportunity to get out of her comfort zone and get involved. During her time at FAMU, she’s become the President of MANRRS, Vice President of Food Science Club, Enhance Our Environment Co-Chair of The Original Beta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and The College of Agriculture & Food Sciences liaison of Student Government Association, with her biggest accomplishment being a well-rounded leader.
“I’m proud not only of the positions I’ve held, but of the impact I’ve made creating programs, supporting peers, and contributing to spaces larger than myself,” Tellis said.
She attributes most of her interests and purpose on campus to CAFS.
“I’ve come to understand that food science and agriculture are deeply connected to health, sustainability, economic development, and social justice,” Tellis said. “It’s encouraged me to see my future career as a way to serve communities and address real-world challenges.”
She aims to be an advocate for her peers and contribute to spaces larger than herself. She hopes to continue building on her professional experiences as she prepares for graduate study and medical school.
“Due to the fact that a large sum of the student body is unaware of our college’s presence, and the majors that exist within, it’s nice to be able to raise awareness and represent ourselves,” Tellis said.
While Tellis is deeply committed to leadership, service, and academic excellence, her sense of purpose extends beyond titles and responsibilities. For her, meaningful relationships play a vital role in maintaining personal growth and emotional well-being.
“Trust, consistency, and kindness form the foundation of any relationship I value, and I believe healthy connections are built through effort, empathy, and mutual understanding over time,” Tellis said. “I believe relationships should enhance your life, not drain it.”
For Tellis, love and purpose are deeply intertwined. “It’s not about perfection, but about communication, patience, and mutual respect,” she said. As she continues to grow personally and professionally, those values remain central to her long-term vision. “I envision a career where I can merge science with advocacy and innovation, contributing to food systems that are more equitable, sustainable, and responsive to community needs.”
