Leadership Takes Courage

Doby Flowers made history in 1970 as the first Black homecoming queen at Florida State University, breaking barriers and redefining beauty standards in a pivotal moment during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Her crowning wasn’t just a personal triumph but a landmark moment for FSU and universities across the country as they navigated the challenges of integration. Flowers' leadership and activism extended far beyond her time at FSU. Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions to political and community causes, including working in the mayoral administrations of Kevin White in Boston and Ed Koch in New York. She was honored as a New York City Woman of Distinction and continues her work with a commitment to empowering others. With degrees from FSU and a certificate in executive management from Harvard University, Flowers later returned to her hometown of Tallahassee to work in her brother’s law firm before founding The Magnolia Leaf Bed and Breakfast in Thomasville, Georgia. Through this venture, she supports female business leaders, providing a space for retreats, networking, and growth. Flowers’ achievements have earned her recognition, including the prestigious FCSW Florida Achievement Award for her dedication to improving the lives of women and families. Her legacy, immortalized in the Integration Statue at FSU, continues to inspire future generations of students and activists.

Fred Flowers (B.A. ’69, M.S. ’73) is a pioneering figure whose impact on Florida State University spans both athletics and academics. In 1970, he made history as FSU’s first African American athlete, playing as a pitcher for the baseball team. Fred’s athletic and scholastic achievements are honored at the Integration Statue on Florida State’s Main Campus, a lasting tribute to his role in breaking racial barriers and his contributions to the university. A proud graduate, Fred earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1969 and his Master’s degree in 1975. Along with his sister, Doby Flowers, Fred helped bring the idea of establishing a Civil Rights Institute to their alma mater, a significant step toward preserving and educating future generations about the history of civil rights in the United States. Fred is also a distant relative of baseball legend Jackie Robinson. In 2019, he was one of three distinguished panelists to speak at an event celebrating Robinson’s 100th birthday, held at the Challenger Learning Center. In 2023, Fred was inducted into FSU's prestigious Circle of Gold during the Alumni Awards. Reflecting on the values of his alma mater, he shared in his acceptance speech: “Florida State University is a shining light of diversity, where people of all nationalities, races, and religions can come and get the benefit of this education. It’s also a shining light for equity, meaning that equal access is provided to all students. And more importantly, it is an example of inclusion, meaning nobody is excluded because of who you are and where you come from.” Fred Flowers' remarkable journey is a testament to the power of leadership, perseverance, and the transformative impact of inclusion, both at FSU and in the broader world.