Lifestyle | February 13th, 2024

Feeling the Love at FAMU

By: Atiyah Bunton

As Cupid prepares his arrows and love fills the air, there’s a special energy buzzing across the campus of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). Amidst the flurry of classes and campus life, students and organizations are coming together to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a unique way – by spreading love and joy throughout the campus community.

At FAMU, Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic love; it’s a time to embrace all forms of love and show appreciation for one another. From student leaders to campus organizations, there’s a collective effort to make everyone feel valued and cherished on this day dedicated to matters of the heart.

One shining example of a student leader spreading that Valentine’s Day feeling would be our very own Queen of Orange and Green, Keyanna Mcfann. This year, Mcfann is carrying out her very first Valentine’s Day initiative, titled “Love, Rattler”. Drawing inspiration from one of her favorite movies, “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before,” Love, Rattler is a system set up to deliver sweet, anonymous messages to anyone on campus.

When asked what she hopes to achieve by spearheading this activity, Mcfann responded, “I just want anybody who receives one of these to feel special. Since they are anonymous, I feel like it adds a cute little mystery about who sent it. I know personally, if I were to receive one, it would make me feel good. Especially on Valentine’s Day.”

Those looking to participate can send a message by filling out the Google Docs form in Mcfann’s Instagram bio, @KeyannaMcfann.

As for student organizations, Radiant Rose Inc. hopes to be your Valentine. Founded by Sara Sylla, a third-year psych-premed scholar, Radiant Rose is all about self-empowerment and self-love, right on par with the theme of Valentine’s Day.

Staying true to their name, Radiant Rose will be on the quad on February 14th handing out roses with positive self-affirming messages attached to them. “I just want to brighten up people’s day and remind them that love is all around them, as well as in them,” says Sylla. “So, for anybody without a Valentine, Radiant Rose will be happy to have you,” she added.

“Feeling the Love at FAMU” is not a new concept. FAMU class of 2019 alumna and former NCNW president Edreisha Bowles, recalled times of fellowship and joy at FAMU. “My favorite memory is when I was on the Quad, and all of the different orgs were giving out candy and flowers at the time. I was president of NCNW at the time, so it was amazing networking with all the students. It was just a lot of fun and great vibes,” she said.

With a host of options for singles and coupled people alike, anybody looking to soak in all the Love for Valentine’s Day, FAMU has got your back.