IDKMYDE: WSSU and FAMU

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club - Episode IDKMYDE: WSSU and FAMU

Release Date: February 21, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Breakfast Club, hosted by iHeartPodcasts, the discussion centers around two esteemed Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs): Winston Salem State University (WSSU) and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). The host takes listeners on an in-depth exploration of these institutions, highlighting their rich histories, cultural significance, notable alumni, and enduring traditions that foster black excellence.

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1. Winston Salem State University (WSSU)

Timestamp: [02:40]

The episode begins with an enthusiastic introduction to WSSU, located in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Founded in 1890 by Simon G. Atkins, originally as Slater Industrial Academy, WSSU stands as a testament to resilience and dedication in the face of segregation and Jim Crow laws.

• Historical Foundation:
  "Simon G. Atkins. Probably looking down at WSSU like that single mom. Be looking at them kids open them Christmas presents on Christmas morning." ([02:50])

  The host emphasizes Atkins' bold move to establish an educational institution during a time when opportunities for African Americans were severely limited. Initially focusing on vocational training in bricklaying and cooking, WSSU has evolved to offer a diverse array of programs, including nursing and media studies.

• Campus Evolution:
  "Today, you might be in a nursing lab putting IVs in mannequins or recording your podcast in one of the only adobe labs on an HBCU campus." ([03:10])

  This showcases the university's adaptation to modern educational needs while maintaining its unique infrastructure, such as the adobe labs that provide hands-on experience for students.

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2. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU)

Timestamp: [04:10]

Transitioning to FAMU in Tallahassee, Florida, the host delves into the university's storied legacy. Established on October 3, 1887, FAMU has grown from a modest 15-acre campus with two mules into one of the nation's premier HBCUs.

• Overcoming Adversity:
  "So what did FAMU do? Turned it into one of the top HBCUs in the country. They embraced those rattlesnakes and became the FAMU Rattlers." ([04:50])

  The metaphor of embracing rattlesnakes symbolizes FAMU's ability to thrive amidst challenges, transforming obstacles into strengths that define the university's spirit and identity.

• Campus Location and Symbolism:
  "FAMU sits at the highest point in Tallahassee, Florida. Even Florida State got to look up at the rattlers. And they hate that." ([05:15])

  Positioned on the highest of Tallahassee's seven hills, FAMU's vantage point is a source of pride and playful rivalry with neighboring institutions, particularly Florida State University.

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3. Traditions and Culture

Timestamp: [05:45]

The host highlights the vibrant traditions that both WSSU and FAMU uphold, fostering a sense of community and excellence.

• WSSU Traditions:
  "One of the most notable chants at Winston Salem State University is chew to back a, Chew the back a, chew the back a spit." ([05:00])

  Such chants are integral in building school spirit and unity among students and alumni.

• FAMU's Marching 100:
  "And don't let the marching 100 touch the field. Have to perform. The band might do as much work as the football team on Saturdays." ([05:30])

  FAMU's renowned marching band, the Marching 100, is celebrated for its rigorous performances and significant role in the university's athletic and cultural events.

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4. Notable Alumni

Timestamp: [05:50]

Both institutions boast a roster of accomplished alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields.

• WSSU Alumni:
  "You ever heard of Louis Farrakhan, a WSSU grad? You ever been watching Wild N Out and seen Chico Bean? Yeah, Bean a ram, too." ([03:30])

  Louis Farrakhan's influence in activism and Chico Bean's presence in entertainment underscore the diverse paths WSSU graduates have taken.

• FAMU Alumni:
  "FAMU has some of the dopest alumni in the game. Keisha Lance Bottoms, the former mayor of Atlanta. FAMU grad." ([05:40])
  "What about the movie director, Will Packer? He a rattler?" ([05:45])

  Keisha Lance Bottoms and Will Packer exemplify FAMU's impact on politics and the arts, respectively, illustrating the university's role in shaping leaders and creatives.

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5. Conclusion

Timestamp: [06:40]

The episode wraps up by reiterating the significance of WSSU and FAMU as more than just educational institutions. They are "launching pads for greatness," fostering environments where students are encouraged to excel and contribute meaningfully to society.

• Final Thoughts:
  "Whether it's Winston Salem State University with the motto 'Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve' in the heart of North Carolina, or FAMU with the motto 'Excellence is caring' down there in the Sunshine State, these schools are more than just campuses. They're launching pads for greatness." ([06:10])

  This encapsulates the enduring legacy and inspirational role these HBCUs play in nurturing future generations of leaders, professionals, and change-makers.

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Closing Remarks

In this episode, The Breakfast Club successfully sheds light on the pivotal roles that WSSU and FAMU play in promoting black excellence through their rich histories, vibrant traditions, and distinguished alumni. Listeners gain a deeper appreciation for these institutions' contributions to education, culture, and society at large.

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Notable Quotes

• "Simon G. Atkins. Probably looking down at WSSU like that single mom. Be looking at them kids open them Christmas presents on Christmas morning." ([02:50])

• "If I didn't know, maybe you didn't Either I will share with you two HBCUs that that I hold near and dear to my heart." ([02:40])

• "Chew the back a, Chew the back a, chew the back a spit." ([05:00])

• "FAMU sits at the highest point in Tallahassee, Florida. Even Florida State got to look up at the rattlers. And they hate that." ([05:15])

• "Whether it's Winston Salem State University with the motto 'Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve' or FAMU with the motto 'Excellence is caring,' these schools are more than just campuses. They're launching pads for greatness." ([06:10])

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Conclusion

This episode serves as an homage to two remarkable HBCUs, celebrating their enduring legacies and the profound impact they continue to have on their students and the broader community. Whether you're an alum, prospective student, or simply interested in the rich tapestry of HBCU history, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Transcript

[Jon Stewart]

Jon Stewart is back at the Daily show, and he's bringing his signature wit and insight straight to your ears with the Daily Show Ears Edition podcast. Dive into John's unique take on the biggest topics in politics, entertainment, sports, and more. Joined by the sharp voices of the show's correspondents and contributors, and with extended interviews and exclusive weekly headline roundups, this podcast gives you content you won't find anywhere else. Ready to laugh and stay informed? Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Mary Kay McBrayer]

I'm Mary Kay McBrayer, host of the podcast the Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told. This season explores women from the 19th century to now. Women who were murderers and scammers, but also women who were photojournalists, lawyers, writers, and more. This podcast tells more than just the brutal, gory details of horrific acts. I delve into the good, the bad, the difficult, and all the nuance I can find because these are the stories that we need to know to understand the intersection of society, justice, and the fascinating workings of the human psyche. Join me every week as I tell some of the most enthralling true crime stories about women who are not just victims, but heroes or villains, or often somewhere in between. Listen to the greatest true crime stories ever told on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Martin Luther King III]

Welcome to My Legacy. I'm Martin Luther King III and together with my wife, Andrea Waters King, and our dear friends Mark and Craig Kilburger, we explore the personal journeys that shape extraordinary lives.

[Jess Hilarious]

Join us for heartfelt conversations with remarkable guests like David Oyelo, Mel Robbins, Martin Sheen, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, and Billy Porter.

[Unknown]

Listen to My legacy on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. This is my legacy.

[Jess Hilarious]

Yo, what up? It's your girl Jess. Hilarious. And I think it's time to acknowledge that I'm not just a comedian. It's time to add uncertified therapists to my credentials. Because each and every Wednesday I'm fixing your mess on Carefully Reckless on the Black Effect Podcast Network. Got problems in your relationship? Come to me. Your best friend acting shady? Come to me. Thought you was the father but you not come to me. I can't promise I won't judge you but I can guarantee that I will help you. Listen to Carefully Reckless on the Black Effect Podcast Network, iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Unknown]

On today's episode. If I didn't know, maybe you didn't Either I will share with you two HBCUs that that I hold near and dear to my heart. One's a ram, one's a rattler, and 500 miles separates the two. Okay, buckle your seatbelts and let's take a road trip through black excellence. First stop, Winston Salem, North Carolina. Winston Salem State University, founded in 1890. 1892 by Simon G. Atkins. You know how bold you gotta be to found a University in 1892? That man said, segregation, Jim Crow. Ain't nobody got time for that. So he started Slater Industrial Academy, which is now Winston Salem State University. Back then, you were learning bricklaying and cooking. Today, you might be in a nursing lab putting IVs in mannequins or recording your podcast in one of the only adobe labs on an HBCU campus. Simon G. Atkins. Probably looking down at WSSU like that single mom. Be looking at them kids open them Christmas presents on Christmas morning. And don't let me talk about the legends who walked through those doors of Winston Salem State University. You ever heard of Louis Farrakhan, a WSSU grad? You ever been watching Wild N Out and seen Chico Bean? Yeah, Bean a ram, too. The name of our band is the Red Sea of Sound. Our cheerleaders, oh, you may have seen them on the ground stomp and shake excellence. We talking about powerhouse of red and white. And around 2007, Siobhan Estrada pretty much revolutionized the version of stomping shake that we see today. But that's a whole nother episode. One of the most notable chants at Winston Salem State University is chew to back a, Chew the back a, chew the back a spit. If you ain't a ram, then you ain't. We try to keep it PG for the children and the elderly that want to sing along. That's good old Su. Now let's head down I95 to Tallahassee, Florida, and visit Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, better known as famu. They got a chant, too. It's usually led by Loose Kid. He'll say, I represent. And all the rattlers say, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, October 3, 1887. What exactly? FAMU was founded October 3, 1887. Now, Tallahassee, Florida, has seven huge hills, and the part of Florida they gave FAM was the highest hill, but it was filled with rattlesnakes. So the state of Florida was like, y'all can have 15 acres and two mules. Good luck. So what did fam you do? Turned it into one of the top HBCUs in the country. They embraced those rattlesnakes and became the FAMU Rattlers. And if you meet any rattler, they'll let you know that they're from the highest of seven hills. That's right. FAMU sits at the highest point in Tallahassee, Florida. Even Florida State got to look up at the rattlers. And they hate that. FAMU is so iconic it makes you want to enroll. Just for homecoming. No, cap. I experienced it last year. And don't let the marching 100 touch the field. Have perform. The band might do as much work as the football team on Saturdays. And FAMU has some of the dopest alumni in the game. Keisha Lance Bottoms, the former mayor of Atlanta. Fam U grad. What about the movie director, Will Packer? He a rattler? And he even got a performing arts amphitheater right on campus. So whether it's Winston Salem State University with the motto Enter to Learn, Depart to serve in the heart of North Carolina, or FAMU with the motto Excellence is caring down there in the Sunshine State, these schools are more than just campuses. They're launching pads for greatness. And they're two of my favorites. Okay, bye.

[Jon Stewart]

John Stewart is back at the Daily show, and he's bringing his signature wit and insight straight to your ears with the Daily Show Ears Edition podcast. Dive into John's unique take on the big biggest topics in politics, entertainment, sports, and more. Joined by the sharp voices of the show's correspondence and contributors, and with extended interviews and exclusive weekly headline roundups, this podcast gives you content you won't find anywhere else. Ready to laugh and stay informed, listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Martin Luther King III]

Welcome to My Legacy. I'm Martin Luther King iii, and together with my wife, Andrea Waters King, and our dear friends Mark and Craig Kilburger, we explore the personal journeys that shape extraordinary lives.

[Jess Hilarious]

Join us for heartfelt conversations with remarkable guests like David Oyelowo, Mel Robbins, Martin Sheen, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, and Billy Porter.

[Unknown]

Listen to My legacy on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. This is my Legacy.

[Mary Kay McBrayer]

I'm Mary Kay McBrayer, host of the podcast the Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told. This season explores women from the 19th century to now, women who were murderers and scammers, but also women who were photojournalists, lawyers, writers, and more. This podcast tells more than just the brutal, gory details of horrific acts. I delve into the good, the bad, the difficult, and all the nuance I can find, because these are the stories that we need to know to understand the intersection of society, justice and the fascinating workings of the human psyche. Join me every week as I tell some of the most enthralling true crime stories about women who are not just victims, but heroes or villains, or often somewhere in between. Listen to the greatest true crime stories ever told on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Jess Hilarious]

Yo, what up? It's your girl Jess. Hilarious. And I think it's time to acknowledge that I'm not just a comedian. It's time to add uncertified therapists to my credentials. Because each and every Wednesday I'm fixing your mess on Carefully Reckless on the Black Effect Podcast Network. Got problems in your relationship? Come to me. Your best friend acting shady? Come to me. Thought you was the father but you not come to me. I can't promise I won't judge you but I can guarantee that I will help you. Listen to Carefully Reckless on the Black Effect Podcast Network, iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcast.