This file contains materials dating from 1938 to 1949 generated during the presidency of Florida A&M College President Dr. William H. Gray, Jr. The materials are arranged alphabetically by subject and correspondent and include correspondence, organizational records, annual reports, brochures, and committee documentation related to external institutions and affiliated organizations.

The correspondence to other universities, schools, and affiliated entities is organized in alphabetical order by organization and individual correspondent, reflecting standard administrative filing practices of the Office of the President. Within this grouping are records associated with Bethune–Volusia Beach, Inc. (BVBI), including annual reports, board and committee reports, brochures, and extensive correspondence with officers, directors, investors, and staff.

Collectively, these papers provide insight into President Gray’s administrative leadership, institutional partnerships, civic engagement, and involvement in regional development initiatives during the late 1930s and 1940s. The records document governance structures, financial oversight, promotional activities, and strategic planning efforts connected to both Florida A&M College and affiliated organizations, illustrating the broader social, educational, and economic networks in which the institution operated during this period.

This series consists of correspondence, organizational records, committee reports, financial documentation, and administrative materials created and received by Dr. William H. Gray during his tenure as President of Florida A&M College (FAMC).

The records primarily document Dr. Gray’s leadership, institutional development initiatives, financial oversight, and professional engagements with educational institutions, organizations, investors, and civic leaders. Of particular significance are materials relating to Bethune–Volusia Beach, Inc. (BVBI), including executive correspondence, board communications, stockholder matters, real estate transactions, financial statements, and reports.

The collection reflects Dr. Gray’s dual role as President of FAMC and as Executive Vice President of BVBI, illustrating his involvement in economic development and institutional advancement efforts during the mid-twentieth century.

Correspondence with other universities, schools, and professional contacts is arranged alphabetically by individual or subject heading, maintaining original alphabetical order as reflected in the archival files.

Collectively, these papers provide insight into African American higher education leadership, economic enterprise, and institutional administration during the 1940s.

This file contains special correspondence dating from 1945 to 1949 generated during the presidency of Florida A&M College President Dr. William H. Gray, Jr. The materials are arranged alphabetically by correspondent and institutional affiliation and primarily document communications between the Office of the President and administrators representing colleges, universities, and educational institutions.

The correspondence reflects professional relationships between President Gray and leaders of historically Black colleges and universities, regional educational institutions, and organizations connected to higher education administration. Topics represented within this series include institutional development, cooperative educational initiatives, administrative coordination, legislative matters affecting higher education, and professional networking among college presidents and state officials.

Collectively, these records provide insight into Florida A&M College’s institutional growth, intercollegiate partnerships, and leadership engagement during the post–World War II era. The materials further illustrate the role of historically Black institutions in expanding educational access and navigating evolving political and educational landscapes in the mid-twentieth century.

October 3, 1887. It began classes with 15 students and two (2) instructors. Thomas DeSaille Tucker (1887-1901), an attorney from Pensacola, was chosen to be the first president. Former State Representative Gibbs joined Mr. Tucker as the second faculty member.

President Nathan B. Young (1901-1923) directed the growth of the College to a four-year degree-granting institution, despite limited resources, offering the Bachelor of Science degree in education, science, home economics, agriculture, and mechanical arts.

Under the administration of John Robert Edward Lee Sr. (1924-1944), the College acquired much of the physical and academic image it has today.

In 1949, under William H. Gray Jr. (1944-1949), expansion and reorganization continued.

Perhaps one of the most outstanding achievements came under the presidency of Dr. George W. Gore (1950-1968).

With Dr. Benjamin L. Perry, Jr., at the helm, the 1970s brought further growth to the University.

The 1980s served as a model for productive development. Under the administration of Dr. Walter L. Smith, the University grew to eleven schools and colleges and a division of graduate studies, research, and continuing education.

In 1985, the construction of a new corridor of history began as Dr. Frederick S. Humphries became the eighth president of Florida A&M University. Under his leadership, FAMU experienced significant growth and unsurpassed accomplishments.

Under Dr. Robinson’s leadership, FAMU continues to thrive, has implemented new recruitment and retention strategies, has strengthened the university’s academic programs, and more!