The Lawson Center

 

ABOUT THE FAMU Al Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center

 

Welcome to the Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center

 

Florida A&M University proudly hosts Commencement at the

Alfred “Al” Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center, a premier 9,639-seat facility located at 1800 Althea Gibson Way.

Opened in 2009, this state-of-the-art venue serves as the home for FAMU athletics and is a central space for major university events, including graduation ceremonies.

The Lawson Center provides a comfortable and accessible environment for graduates, families, and guests.

The arena features both lower-level and upper-level seating, along with designated accessibility seating areas to ensure all attendees have an inclusive and enjoyable experience.

wide shot photo of lawson during graduation of the graduations


Seating & Accessibility Information

Floor Seating

  • Reserved exclusively for graduates and official ceremony participants (faculty, platform party, and procession members).
  • Guests and families will be seated in the arena seating sections (the bleachers).

Accessible Seating (ADA Seating)

FAMU is committed to providing accessible seating for guests with disabilities and mobility needs, along with space for a companion to sit nearby.

Based on the venue layout:

  • Accessible seating is distributed throughout the arena for convenience and visibility.
  • These areas are typically located:
      • Along the outer edges of sections
      • Near entry/exit aisles and concourses
      • In sections marked with the wheelchair accessibility symbol

Key Accessible Sections Include:

  • Upper Level: Sections near A–D, K–N and along the outer ring (The Concourse) including areas near P–W and X–Y
  • Accessible seating is intentionally spread across the venue to provide multiple viewing options and ease of access

Companion Seating

  • Each accessible seating space includes designated seating for one companion nearby.
  • Additional family members may sit in adjacent standard seating sections, based on availability.

Additional Accessibility Features

  • Fully accessible entrances and pathways
  • On-site accessible parking
  • Elevator and ramp access to upper-level seating
  • Indoor seating accommodations for guests using wheelchairs or other mobility devices



lawson center ada seating map and information