Trayvon Martin has been honored in a variety of ways, but one university is keeping his memory alive this year with a special tribute: a posthumous degree.
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Florida Memorial University is saluting Martin and his parents, Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin, with a Bachelor’s of Aeronautical Science during its commencement ceremony.
Martin, who had dreams of becoming a pilot, took aviation classes at the Miami HBCU during the summer. The school is rewarding him with the degree "in honor of his love for planes and the steps he took during his young life toward becoming a pilot," the school said in a statement.
“Sybrina, our alum, epitomizes strength and dignity as she uplifts other victims of violence while effecting change for a more equal and just society,” it continued.
Fulton took to social media to express her gratitude.
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Thank You #FMU #TrayvonMartin will receive his Bachelors in Aviation ITNOJ Thank You Dr. Artis, the Board & staff #MySchoolFMU
💜🏽🎓
/Son
— Sybrina Fulton (@SybrinaFulton)
Martin’s parents will accept the award during the graduation program, which will be held on May 13. FMU will also host a post-commencement fundraiser and reception to benefit its Department of Aviation and Safety and The Trayvon Martin Foundation.
In 2012, Martin was fatally shot at age 17 by George Zimmerman. His controversial death ignited national outrage, sparking racial tension across the county.
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