Gift from Bernard and Shirley Kinsey will support student scholarships and band operations while inspiring an additional $2 million in philanthropic support
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida A&M University (FAMU) has announced a $2 million charitable commitment from Drs. Bernard and Shirley Pooler Kinsey to strengthen the university’s world-renowned Marching “100” through scholarships and operational support. The gift will establish the Kinsey Marching “100” Matching Challenge, a 36-month fundraising initiative designed to inspire an additional $2 million in philanthropic support from alumni, friends and supporters of the university.
Announced in conjunction with FAMU’s 2026 Homecoming celebration, the matching challenge reflects the Kinsey’s commitment to investing in students and sustaining the excellence, tradition and legacy of the Marching “100.”
“This extraordinary commitment from Drs. Bernard and Shirley Kinsey represents an investment in our students, our traditions and the future of Florida A&M University,” said FAMU President Marva B. Johnson, J.D. “The Marching ‘100’ is a powerful ambassador for FAMU, representing the discipline, talent, pride and excellence that define our university. Through this gift and matching challenge, the Kinsey’s are creating an opportunity for others to join them in supporting our students and ensuring that the Marching ‘100’ continues to inspire audiences around the world.”
Under the agreement, $1.5 million of the Kinsey’s commitment will support an endowed fund benefiting Marching “100” scholarships and operational needs, while $500,000 will be directed to an expendable fund to provide more immediate support for scholarships and program priorities.
The scholarship support will provide financial assistance to eligible students participating in the Marching “100,” while the operational funding will support performance expenses such as uniforms and apparel, instruments and equipment, travel, transportation, educational opportunities and other needs that advance the band’s mission and continued excellence.
The Kinsey Marching 100 Matching Challenge
The matching challenge will begin October 24, 2026, and run for 36 months. During that period, eligible cash gifts and documented charitable pledges from other donors will receive dollar-for-dollar matching recognition, up to an aggregate of $2 million in eligible commitments. There is no minimum gift required to participate.
“Shirley and I believe in the power of education and the importance of creating opportunities for students to pursue their potential,” said Bernard Kinsey, D.H.L. “The Marching ‘100’ represents excellence, commitment and the enduring spirit of FAMU. We hope this challenge inspires Rattlers everywhere, along with friends and supporters of the university, to invest in these talented students and help ensure the band’s legacy continues for generations to come.”
The Kinsey Marching “100” Matching Challenge offers alumni, friends and supporters a meaningful opportunity to multiply their impact. By participating, donors can help expand scholarship opportunities, address essential program needs and sustain the experiences that make the Marching “100” a defining part of the FAMU experience.
“This is an opportunity for the entire Rattler community to come together around a shared commitment to student success and the future of the Marching ‘100,’” said Brandi Tatum-Fedrick, Ed.D., senior vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the FAMU Foundation. “The Kinsey’s have established an extraordinary foundation for this effort. Now, we invite our alumni, donors and friends to help us build on their generosity and create an even greater impact for our students.”
The matching challenge underscores the vital role philanthropy plays in advancing FAMU’s mission and preserving the traditions that unite generations of Rattlers. Through this commitment, the Kinsey’s are helping ensure that Marching “100” students have access to meaningful financial support and the resources needed to continue the band’s tradition of excellence.
To learn more about supporting the Marching “100” and participating in the Kinsey Marching “100” Matching Challenge, visit https://engahttps://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/nm9GUw?vid=1t865r.
To learn more about the Kinsey’s and the Bernard and Shirley Pooler Kinsey African American Art Collection, visit https://www.cbs.com/shows/video/DHc4_VDdTbJx9m2oWA1tuNHBimuyJBi_/.
About Florida A&M University
Founded October 3, 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is the nation’s highest-ranked public historically Black university and an 1890 land-grant, doctoral research institution committed to student success, academic excellence, research, and public service. Through innovative teaching, scholarship, and community engagement, FAMU empowers students to transform their lives and communities while advancing solutions to society’s most pressing challenges.
