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October 21 – 22, 2026

Shift Happens: Define Your Next

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Grads Are Back 2026

Shift Happens: Define Your Next

This year’s theme, “Shift Happens: Define Your Next,” brings FAMU SJGC alumni, students, faculty and industry leaders together to explore how our industries are changing — from the rise of AI to new paths for journalism, design and public relations — and how to own what comes next. The celebration opens with WANM @ 50, honoring five decades of WANM-FM 90.5, followed by a full day of programming: the Knight Chair Speaker Series, the Colloquium, the Grads Are Back BBQ, the Homecoming Career Fair and discipline sessions led by Rattlers shaping the industry.

Sponsors

Schedule of Events

Our Grads Are Back schedule is growing every day. Event details and activities are being updated as they come in. More exciting events will be added as confirmations roll in. Check back regularly for the latest updates. We can’t wait to welcome all our alumni back home!

Wednesday

October 21

Reception

WANM Through the Decades

WANM @ 50 Anniversary Reception

Wednesday October 21, 2026 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm Venue to be announced

Celebrate 50 years of WANM-FM 90.5. The evening features welcome greetings; “The Signal That Shaped Us,” a fast-paced oral history from three generations of WANM alumni; 50th anniversary honors for founders, pioneers, longtime advisers, alumni and students; “Future of the Frequency” with current students; and an anniversary toast and group photo recognizing all WANM alumni — followed by a reception with music and networking.

Thursday

October 22

Invitation Only

Board of Visitors Meeting

Thursday October 22, 2026 7:30 am – 9:35 am

The SJGC Board of Visitors assists the school’s efforts to advance its programs, student development, and reputation as an educational leader. Board members will gather to hear updates and share insights. Invitation only.

Career Fair

Career Fair

Thursday October 22, 2026 10:00 am – 4:00 pm SJGC, 2nd and 3rd floors

More than 25 employers will participate in the 2026 SJGC Career Fair, held on the second and third floors.

Colloquium

Colloquium / Thelma Thurston Gorham Presentation

Degree in Motion: Where Journalism Can Take You

Thursday October 22, 2026 11:00 am – 12:15 pm SJGC Lecture Hall (Room 2002)
with Rod Carter

Weeknight Evening Anchor

CBS 17 News

A rapid conversation featuring some of the newest Board of Visitors members, showing that journalism training travels well beyond the standard newsroom to public relations, health, network leadership, entertainment, brand strategy, and beyond.

Featured new Board of Visitors members
Laura J. Downey

Executive Editor

WebMD Magazine

Johnita Due
Johnita Due

CNN and TNT Sports

Sean McLaughlin

Graham Media Group

Eric Winkfield
Eric Winkfield

M Booth

BBQ

Celebrating 50 Years of Flava — WANM-FM 90.5

Grads Are Back BBQ

Thursday October 22, 2026 12:30 pm – 1:45 pm Plaza in front of the J-School

Our Community in Action

Networking and knowledge-sharing are in full swing at SJGC!