Orlando, Fla. — The Florida A&M University National Alumni Association (FAMU NAA), Greater Orlando Chapter, proudly announced the successful completion of its annual Florida Golf Classic at Celebration, a signature charity event benefiting local students and the university’s scholarship fund. The tournament, held over the Florida Classic weekend, at Celebration Golf Club, brought together alumni, community leaders, and corporate partners for a day of competition and purpose.
The Florida Golf Classic is a longstanding tradition aligned with the Florida Blue Florida Classic Weekend, which attracts more than 150,000 visitors to Central Florida and generates more than $30 million in regional economic impact. Against the backdrop of this historic weekend, the golf tournament serves as one of the chapter’s most impactful fundraising efforts supporting students in the Greater Orlando area.
Participants enjoyed an 18-hole tournament featuring awards for Best Individual Score and Best Foursome, along with networking opportunities designed to deepen alumni engagement and strengthen community partnerships. All proceeds from the event directly support scholarships awarded through the Greater Orlando FAMU NAA to deserving students pursuing higher education.
“As Chair of the Florida Golf Classic Committee, I am honored to help orchestrate an event that not only showcases the spirit of competition but also fuels the educational aspirations of our community’s youth,” said Charles Riley, former PepsiCo, Walt Disney World, and MillerCoors executive. “Our collective efforts here will pave the way for future leaders emerging from Florida A&M University.”
This year’s top teams reflected the strong partnership between the alumni chapter and the local business community.
First Place: Anthony-Smith Law
Second Place: Dental Care at O-Town West
Third Place: Mount Zion Tabernacle Christian Church
Second Place: Dental Care at O-Town West
Third Place: Mount Zion Tabernacle Christian Church
Sponsorship opportunities once again proved essential to the event’s success, offering organizations visibility and community impact during one of the region’s largest annual gatherings. Sponsors of the event include Title Sponsor Anthony-Smith Law, Dental Care at O-Town West, State Farm-Agent Patrick Gray, and Duke Energy. Branding benefits included promotional placement on event materials, targeted media exposure, and exclusive networking with industry professionals, alumni, and supporters.
“Florida A&M University has shaped the lives of so many, and supporting our students is one of the most impactful ways we can continue that legacy,” said Patrick Gray, President of the Greater Orlando FAMU NAA and State Farm Agent. “The Florida Golf Classic is more than just a tournament, it’s a powerful opportunity to invest in the next generation of Rattlers and help them achieve academic and professional success.”
The Greater Orlando FAMU NAA extends its gratitude to every golfer, sponsor, and volunteer whose contributions helped drive this year’s charitable impact. Plans for the next Florida Golf Classic are already underway.
The Greater Orlando FAMU National Alumni Association
The Greater Orlando Chapter of the Florida A&M University National Alumni Association is dedicated to supporting FAMU through scholarships, recruitment, fundraising, and community engagement. The chapter works to advance the mission of the university and strengthen the legacy of excellence among current and future Rattlers.
