FAQs
Answers to your questions about the Rattler Freedom Fund.
What is the Rattler Freedom Fund and how is it different from the FAMU Foundation?
The Rattler Freedom Fund is a new, independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded and governed by FAMU alumni. Unlike the university’s foundation, RFF operates entirely separate from FAMU’s administration and governance — by design, so that no political administration can control, defund, or direct where the money goes or who it serves. The Rattler Freedom Fund operates based on radical transparency – your donations fund scholarships, grants, and Fund operations, not inflated presidential salaries or unrestricted expenses that are invisible to donors.
Both organizations exist because people love FAMU and are committed to advancing student and institutional outcomes. Rattler Freedom Fund gives donors an independent channel governed by Rattlers who never have to answer to the university or the state of Florida.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. The Rattler Freedom Fund is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Why should donors give both to FAMU and Rattler Freedom Fund?
Giving to FAMU and giving to Rattler Freedom Fund aren't competing asks — they fund different things. Your gift to FAMU's own advancement channels supports the university's day-to-day operations and institutional priorities. Your gift to Rattler Freedom Fund is a different kind of investment: an independent, alumni-controlled fund that exists specifically so students, faculty, and FAMU's mission are never left exposed to political interference that threatens the university's funding, direction, and decisions. Think of it as two hands doing two different jobs — one supports FAMU as it runs today, the other protects FAMU's ability to keep running on its own terms tomorrow, regardless of who’s in office politically. The strongest FAMU is one where alumni show up for both.
How is the Rattler Freedom Fund governed, and who oversees the funds?
Can I designate my gift to a specific program?
Yes. When you donate $5,000 or more through a one-time gift, accumulating gift, as a Founding Family, legacy and asset giving, or through an endowment, you can direct your gift to one of Rattler Freedom Fund’s focus areas — Academics, Research, and Athletics — or give an unrestricted gift to be deployed where the need is greatest. In the spirit of radical transparency, you will receive donor impact reports illustrating how your contribution made a tangible difference to FAMU students, faculty, and institutional outcomes.
How can I apply for a Rattler Freedom Fund scholarships and grants?
Scholarship and grant applications will open following the November 20 launch — sign up for updates to be notified the moment they’re live.
Is the Rattler Freedom Fund affiliated with or endorsed by FAMU’s administration?
No. The Rattler Freedom Fund is intentionally independent of FAMU’s university administration — that independence is the core of why it exists. It is built entirely in service of FAMU’s students, faculty, and community, but it is not directed, controlled, or endorsed by the administration.