ORLANDO, FLa. (May 11) - FAMU President James H. Ammons and Bethune-Cookman University President Trudie Kibbie Reed, along with the Florida Classic Consortium, announced today that Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida (BCBSF) has signed on to become the title sponsor for the Florida Classic and several events surrounding the game.  They also announced a five year extension for the game to remain at Orlando's Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium.

In a room full of interested media organizations, Mark S. Lee, Vice President of Brand Development and Marketing Communications of BCBSF, spoke of how he became convinced that BCBSF needed to get involved in the Florida Classic.  Lee had his first experience with the event at last year's coaches luncheon.  He said he knew at that moment that he had to get BCBSF involved heavily in the event.

"We are committed to the entire state of Florida. We live her, we work here, and we want to be here.  We got into this game to provide us with the opportunity to continue to get our message out in a viable market, a market that we are totally committed to," Lee said.

With the addition of BCBSF, will come the changing of the name of the event to the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Florida Classic.  The battle of the bands will now be called the Florida Blue Battle of the Bands.  The contract is a three year commitment, with year four and five options.

Ammons announced the new sponsorship to thunderous applause from the room.  Present at the press conference were several members of the FAMU leadership team.  Dr. Reed and several members of B-CU's leadership were in attendance as well.  Orlando mayor Buddy Dyer and several local officials also took interest in the event.  Ammons said, "I want to thank Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida on behalf of Bethune-Cookman University and Florida A&M University, our alumni, and supporters all across the globe, for joining the Florida Classic in this role."

The Florida Classic is the largest Historically Black College or University  event in the country.  With an annual attendance of over 66,000 since arriving in the Citrus Bowl in 1997.  The game has been regularly broadcasted on ESPN networks since 2005.

Tony Jenkins, BCBSF Central Florida Region Market President said, "Our support of the 2011 Florida Classic underscores our commitment to serve the Orlando community.  BCBSF is delighted to be the title sponsor for this year's Florida Classic and honored to stimulate the environment in which education, health and cultural institutions can better meet the needs of the community."

The Florida Classic is one of the largest fundraisers for scholarships for FAMU and B-CU. 

In addition to the announcement about the title sponsor, FAMU and B-CU have expressed to the City of Orlando that renovations to the stadium must be a priority in order to continue in the location.  With today's announcement of another five year commitment, the Florida Classic Consortium has challenged the city to move forward with upgrades to the stadium for a better fan experience.  In a brief response, Mayor Dyer responded, "You're preaching to the choir." Florida Citrus Sports Executive Director Steve Hogan also spoke of the need to set a timetable for renovations in order to remain competitive for the Florida Classic, as well as prominent bowl games.

Dr. Reed's comments summed up the urgency in trading commitments between the city and the schools.  She said, "The great fans of these two schools have helped the event grow into what it has become.  We believe in Central Florida's commitment to the game as well as a revitalized stadium that will hopefully be home to the game for many years to come."