Florida A&M University’s School of Business and Industry (SBI) is celebrating its 50th anniversary this month, marking five decades of producing industry leaders and fostering a culture of professionalism and excellence. The celebration, set to take place from October 28 to November 1, will include a variety of events honoring the school’s legacy, achievements, and ongoing commitment to shaping global business leaders.
Founded in 1974, SBI has grown from humble beginnings into a nationally recognized institution noted for its innovative approach to business education.
“The 50th anniversary of SBI is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone who has been part of its history,” said Ryan Daniels, a senior SBI student. “As students, we are proud to contribute to this legacy.”
The week-long celebration will feature several events, including the SBI Career Partner Case Study on October 28 and a Forum on October 29, where students will engage with industry professionals. Highlights include the SBI 50th Anniversary Gala Mixer on October 31 and the Homecoming Convocation on November 1, where students, faculty, and alumni will gather to reflect on the school’s accomplishments and its impact on their lives and careers.
Dean Sybil Collins Mobley, who served as the founding dean from 1974 until her retirement in 2003, is widely credited with shaping SBI’s unique focus on professional development and mandatory internships. Mobley’s influence can still be felt today as students continue to engage in real-world experiences as part of their education.
“I think professional development and internships are what keep SBI alive today,” said Trinity Brown, an SBI junior. “Graduates return year after year looking for a new batch of students to hire, which shows how much value they see in our preparation.”
Under Mobley’s leadership, SBI introduced a model that combined rigorous academics with hands-on professional experiences, creating graduates who excel in various industries worldwide. The school offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including degrees in Business Administration, Accounting, and Supply Chain Management, as well as MBA programs that cater to both traditional and non-traditional students.
Reflecting on the impact of SBI, Brown added, “SBI has brought me so many new connections, ones that will stay with me far beyond graduation. The professional standards we learn here, from how to dress to how to network, are all thanks to the foundation Dean Mobley built for us.”
As the school looks to the future, students and faculty alike express a desire to uphold and expand upon the legacy that has made SBI a cornerstone of business education at FAMU.
“For the future, I just want SBI to continue to excel,” said Brown. “So many students come to FAMU just for SBI, and I hope that continues for many years to come.
The 50th anniversary celebration will also include a range of opportunities for alumni to reconnect and for current students to network with industry leaders. Events like the FAMU Industry Cluster Reception and the FAMFest Case Study Announcements offer a chance for the SBI community to showcase the ongoing influence of the school on the business world.
As SBI commemorates this milestone, it remains committed to its mission of educating students who can excel as global leaders in diverse sectors. The School of Business and Industry has not only upheld its historical legacy but also embraced a future where innovation and inclusion continue to drive its vision.
For more information on the SBI 50th Anniversary Celebration, visit sbi.famu.edu or contact the school at (850) 599-3565.