Florida A&M

Donald Reed’s Journey to Director of Equipment

9/20/2022 6:00:00 PM

By: Germanie Bozeman

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. | Born and raised in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Donald Reed has played a crucial role in FAMU's athletic department. His journey began at FAMU in 2011, where he obtained his bachelor's in Health Leisure and Fitness studies and became the first student in FAMU history to graduate from that program in 2015. In the same year, he started his own sports equipment business and decided to come back to FAMU for his master's degree in sports management in 2016. During this time, he began his internship through the graduate program working with the FAMU athletics equipment department, where he developed his skills with uniforms, fashion designing, and equipment maintenance.

Growing up, Reed described himself as very "stylish and fancy" with his equipment. His love for equipment began when he decided to sell mouthpieces while he attended school in Virginia, further realizing that he should take equipment more seriously. By designing arm sleeves, visors, wrist bands, and more, his creativity allowed him to become the assistant equipment manager only after six months into his internship.

With a change in staff, Donald Reed was promoted to Director of Equipment which led him to make impacting decisions for 16 sports teams at FAMU. Reed explains that the Director of Equipment role consists of ordering, overseeing, and designing uniforms and ensuring all facilities are adequately shaped for student-athlete use. Reed describes his role as "Fun and relaxing," further explaining that his job does not feel like work but rather a second home to pursue what he enjoys the most. Being able to see the athletes' reactions, smiles, and appreciation toward his valuable creations makes him even more excited to be the Director of Equipment for the 2022-2023 academic year.

After working his way up to his lead role, Donald Reed tells the youth to "Do what you love and be patient; chase your dreams and let everything else play out," as motivation to pursue their career goals at the highest level possible.

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