Introduction

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) and Howard University, two of the nation’s most prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), have a long-standing rivalry that extends beyond athletics. Both institutions have played a pivotal role in shaping the lives of countless African Americans and have a profound impact on the communities they serve.
Academic Excellence
2.1. Rankings and Reputation
- FAMU is consistently ranked among the top 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities by U.S. News & World Report.
- Howard University is ranked #1 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities and #133 overall in the 2023 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings.
2.2. Faculty and Research
- FAMU boasts over 500 full-time faculty members with a strong dedication to teaching and mentorship.
- Howard University has a world-renowned faculty with over 1,000 members, including Nobel Prize winners and renowned scholars.
Athletic Prowess
3.1. Football
- FAMU’s football team, the Rattlers, has won 13 National Championships, including the 2021 HBCU National Championship.
- Howard University’s football team, the Bison, has won two National Championships, most recently in 2010.
3.2. Other Sports
- FAMU excels in other sports as well, with strong programs in basketball, track and field, and volleyball.
- Howard University is known for its women’s basketball team, the Lady Bison, which has won 13 conference championships.
Culture and Impact
4.1. Influential Alumni
- FAMU has produced notable alumni such as civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr., NASA astronaut Ronald McNair, and author Zora Neale Hurston.
- Howard University has a long list of distinguished alumni, including Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, activist Frederick Douglass, and writer Toni Morrison.
4.2. Community Engagement
- FAMU plays an active role in the Tallahassee community through partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and schools.
- Howard University is an integral part of the Washington, D.C. community, providing healthcare, educational programs, and cultural initiatives.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
5.1. Research Centers
- FAMU houses the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, which conducts cutting-edge research in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy.
- Howard University has established the Howard University Research Center (HURC), which focuses on interdisciplinary research in health, education, and social justice.
5.2. Start-up Incubators
- FAMU supports student and faculty entrepreneurship through its Innovation Center, which provides resources for start-up development.
- Howard University operates the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, which fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration.
Tables
Characteristic | Florida A&M | Howard University |
---|---|---|
Academic Ranking (U.S. News & World Report) | Top 100 HBCUs | #1 HBCU |
Faculty Size | Over 500 | Over 1,000 |
Football National Championships | 13 | 2 |
Influential Alumni | Martin Luther King Jr., Ronald McNair, Zora Neale Hurston | Thurgood Marshall, Frederick Douglass, Toni Morrison |
FAQs
- Which university has the better football team? The FAMU Rattlers have a slight edge in terms of National Championships.
- Which university has the stronger academic reputation? Howard University is consistently ranked higher in national rankings and has a world-renowned faculty.
- Which university has more influential alumni? Both FAMU and Howard University have produced notable alumni who have made significant contributions to society.
- Which university is more involved in the community? Both FAMU and Howard University play an active role in their local communities.
- Which university is more supportive of entrepreneurship? Both FAMU and Howard University have established incubators and resources to foster student and faculty entrepreneurship.
- Which university is more innovative? Both FAMU and Howard University are investing in research and innovation to advance society.