Agile, Mobile, Hostile

Professor Roosevelt Wilson developed a friendship with Coach Alonzo S. "Jake" Gaither when Wilson came to Tallahassee in 1969 to serve as sports information director for Florida A&M University. A close confidant, Gaither entrusted Wilson to pen his authorized biography, written by Wilson in 1976. Wilson was appointed athletic director in 1980 by FAMU President Walter Smith. After five years as athletic director, Wilson retired the administrative post and became a professor in the FAMU School of Journalism & Graphic Communication, where he was a respected educator beloved by his students who nicknamed him "Prof."

 

A preeminent journalist, Wilson (retired) was considered the conscience of the Tallahassee community for more than 45 years. Regarded for his straightforward, truth-telling advocacy, Wilson served the community for nearly 20 years as publisher and owner of the Capital Outlook, a weekly black niche newspaper. During Wilson’s ownership tenure (1991-2009), the Capital Outlook evolved into a social activist, community representative and well-respected institution lauded for its integrity. The retired publisher used his weekly publication to give voice to marginalized populations. His "Against the Grain" column was considered the most popular feature of the newspaper, with its 'tell-it-like-it-is” reputation when confronting social and political issues, especially related to race. He was known for his thoroughly profound prose and fairness as a social influencer.​

 

Wilson was born July 25, 1940, in rural Bunnell, Florida to Zackie W. and Rosa Wilson. Married to Cathy Wilson, his wife of 55 years, he is the father to Van, Vaughn, and Tiffany. He was the loving grandfather to six adored grandchildren. He attended Bethune-Cookman College (B-CC) and earned a bachelor’s degree in English. He later, in 1977, earned a master’s degree in Mass Communication from Florida State University. The community mourned the loss of Wilson, who died Sunday, October 21, 2018. His legacy lives on in all he touched through his teaching, writing, leadership, and caring. Honoring his wish, the Wilson Family established the Roosevelt Wilson Endowed Scholarship to support athletics at Florida A&M University. All proceeds from the sale of his book, Agile, Mobile, Hostile: The Biography of Alonzo S. "Jake" Gaither support scholarships for student athletes at FAMU.