FAMU Names Henry Burris Acting Head Football Coach

President Johnson Advances Vision of Excellence with Athletics as Driver of University Success

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida A&M University (FAMU) President Marva B. Johnson, J.D., today announced the appointment of Henry Burris– currently FAMU’s Quarterbacks Coach and Co-Offensive Coordinator – as Acting Head Football Coach, effective immediately until a permanent coach is named. The university extends its sincere gratitude to James Colzie, III, for his service and commitment to FAMU Athletics. Coach Colzie’s leadership during a period of transition and uncertainty provided stability and focus for our student athletes. We wish him continued success in his future endeavors.

“Excellence is the standard that extends across every aspect of our institution—from academics and research to athletics and community engagement,” said President Johnson. “As the nation’s top public HBCU, we are committed to operational excellence in everything we do. Our football program and all Rattler sports are critical drivers of university pride, student recruitment, alumni engagement, and institutional momentum. Success on the field elevates our entire university, creates economic opportunity for our region, and inspires the next generation of Rattler scholars and leaders. This leadership transition reflects our commitment building on the proud legacy of FAMU athletics and its storied superstars, while transforming our programs to meet the demands of today’s collegiate landscape—including competing in a dynamic recruiting environment shaped by NIL opportunities— and positioning FAMU at the championship level our community deserves.”

President Johnson has made competitive excellence a cornerstone of her institutional vision, recognizing that athletic success strengthens academic recruitment, enhances alumni engagement, and amplifies FAMU’s national profile. Under her leadership, the University is investing strategically in athletics infrastructure, coaching talent, and operational systems that align all Rattler sports programs for sustained competitiveness. cohesion and focus as the university leadership positions the program for long-term success.

Burris, a two-time championship quarterback and accomplished leader, brings proven experience in high-performance environments. His immediate priorities include guiding the program through this transition, managing player cohesion, supporting active recruitment efforts, and ensuring that the program remains focused and prepared as FAMU charts its path forward.

The appointment is part of FAMU’s broader commitment to advancing excellence on the field and off, reinforcing football’s role as a flagship program that generates visibility, resources, and pride for the entire university community. As FAMU enters this new chapter, the University remains unified in its resolve to elevate the student-athlete experience, honor our legacy, and build a future worth of the Rattler tradition.