Florida Memorial University

Brothers in harmony. That’s how one might describe James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson. Their collaboration brought forth a powerful anthem, forever etched in the heart of Florida Memorial University’s story. Florida Memorial University, a beacon of history and education, has witnessed the transformation of dreams into reality since its humble beginnings in 1879. But this university isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s a tapestry woven with the threads of perseverance, creativity, and the unwavering pursuit of equality. It was at Florida Memorial University, then known as the Florida Baptist Academy, that the Johnson brothers gifted the world with “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing.” Composed in 1900, the song’s message of hope and resilience resonated deeply within the African American community. It became known as the “Negro National Anthem,” a testament to the university’s role in nurturing artistic expression that spoke truth to power. Today, Florida Memorial University continues to empower students from diverse backgrounds, upholding its legacy as the only historically Black university in South Florida. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring spirit of its founders who dared to dream of a brighter future.