Florida A&M University hosted “Celebrating My Brother With My Brother” a two-day event highlighting men’s mental and physical health, bringing together students, faculty, and community partners for essential conversations, wellness screenings, and camaraderie.

Organized by Vernon Bryant, coordinator, public functions, in the Office of the President. and Willie Williams, DrPH, assistant professor, in the School of Allied Health Sciences, the event included a candlelight vigil, a community bowling social, and a “Breaking Bread” luncheon where more than 80 men, from high school students to alumni, gathered to discuss wellness in a safe space.

“This was a synergy of numerous needs and recent losses we’ve seen in our community,” said Williams. “We’ve had respected men die prematurely due to health issues and suicide. We realized the time to create a dedicated space was now.”

The function coincided with Men’s Health Month, recognized nationally in June. It marked one of the first times FAMU has hosted a male-centered health and wellness experience on campus.

"This wasn’t just an event—it was a healing ground. We created an uplifting and educational space where men could be seen, heard, and reminded that vulnerability is strength. My hope is that ‘Celebrating My Brother With My Brother’ becomes more than a moment. It becomes a movement," Bryant said.  

Attendees received free screenings, including blood pressure checks, HIV/STD testing, BMI analysis, and prostate-specific antigen tests, provided by departments and organizations such as the School of Allied Health, Bond Community Health Center, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and more.

Royal Court advisor Khari Jackson said the event stood out for its intimacy and impact.

“I was happy to see so many powerful Black men in one space,” he said. “Events like this open up conversations and help make mental health less taboo. They remind us we’re not alone.”

The occasion also provided professional development for FAMU’s graduate students, many of whom helped administer the services.

“Our students got to practice one-on-one engagement with community members,” Williams added. “In a room full of future Black medical professionals, the energy was inspiring.”

Williams emphasized that supporting men’s health on campus requires not just conversation alone, but consistency. “It’s critical that we create safe spaces like these regularly,” he said. “If our presence doesn’t make an impact, then our absence won’t make a difference.”

Organizers hope the initiative continues as an annual tradition, increasing attendance and influence.

Media Contact:

Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu 

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