Education
Florida Memorial University Doubles Enrollment to a Record 2,556 Students
Florida Memorial University starts its 2026-27 academic year with the largest student body in school history.
Some of the best news in Miami Gardens this fall is coming from 15800 NW 42nd Avenue. Florida Memorial University, the city's historically Black university, has 2,556 students enrolled for Fall 2026. That is the largest student body in the school's 147-year history, and roughly double the number from a year ago.
2,556 students enrolled for Fall 2026. 100% increase over Fall 2025, according to the university. 147 years since FMU was founded in 1879. 1: South Florida's only HBCU.
A record 147 years in the making
FMU announced the milestone in September as it opened the 2026-27 academic year. University leaders said no enrollment in the school's history has been larger, and they credited a more focused recruitment strategy, stronger community partnerships, and a renewed sense of stability at the institution.
That last point matters. The university has faced public scrutiny in recent years, and officials described the enrollment surge as a sign that students and families are regaining confidence in FMU. University President William Cullen McCormick Jr., the school's 15th president and the first FMU alumnus to lead it, framed the growth as proof that the university can expand without lowering its academic standards.
Why it matters for Miami Gardens
Florida Memorial has been part of Miami Gardens since long before the city incorporated in 2003. It is the only HBCU in South Florida and one of the city's anchor institutions, and a bigger student body ripples well beyond campus.
More business for local shops and restaurants
Twice as many students means more people eating, shopping, getting haircuts, and grabbing coffee in the neighborhoods around campus. Local businesses near NW 42nd Avenue are likely to feel it first.
More young talent in the city
Students intern with local organizations, volunteer in Miami Gardens schools, and some choose to stay after graduation. A growing university helps keep young professionals in the community.
More energy on campus
Bigger enrollment means bigger crowds at games, concerts, lectures, and campus events that are often open to the community.
Homecoming is coming up
The timing is good. FMU celebrates homecoming on Saturday, October 24, when the Lions host Thomas. With a record student body on campus, expect one of the liveliest homecomings in years. It falls on a busy day in the city, with the Canes also hosting Pitt at Hard Rock Stadium, so plan ahead. See our October 2026 events guide for everything else happening that month.
Florida Memorial University is at 15800 NW 42nd Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL 33054. Prospective students and families can find admissions and campus event information through the university directly.
Frequently asked questions
How many students are enrolled at Florida Memorial University in 2026?
Florida Memorial University reported 2,556 students enrolled for Fall 2026, the largest enrollment in the university’s history and a 100% increase over Fall 2025.
Is Florida Memorial University an HBCU?
Yes. Florida Memorial University is a private, four-year historically Black university founded in 1879. It is the only HBCU in South Florida and is located in Miami Gardens.
Where is Florida Memorial University located?
Florida Memorial University is at 15800 NW 42nd Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL 33054.
When is FMU homecoming 2026?
Florida Memorial University homecoming is Saturday, October 24, 2026, when the Lions host Thomas.
Enrollment figures are as reported by Florida Memorial University for Fall 2026. Event details are subject to change; confirm with the university. Published: October 1, 2026.
