Malik Moore – an FSU alumnus [B.S. Political Science ’20 and Master’s of Applied American Politics and Policy (MAAPP) ’23] – was recently appointed as the youngest member of the Racial Reconciliation Committee for the City of Tampa.
Formed in May 2024, the committee aims to research the effects of systematic discrimination and develop proposals to address affordable housing, development, youth empowerment, services for previously incarcerated individuals, and ignored areas of history. Moore was one of thirteen people to receive this position.
“I’ve always had a passion for politics, and I wanted to attend a school that would not only equip me with the skills to pursue that passion but encourage me to follow my passion,” Moore said. “With FSU being in the capital city, it was the right choice for me.”
In 2020, Moore received his bachelor’s in political science with a minor in African American studies, and in 2023 he earned a Masters of Applied American Politics and Policy.
“Both of my degree programs allowed the opportunity to meet lifelong friends and mentors who have helped me forge my own path not only in the area of Florida politics but nationally,” Moore said. “I met amazing faculty and staff who still keep up with my progress to this day and offer advice or an encouraging word.”
During his time at FSU, he was involved in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). He also served as the president of DeGraff Hall and was a member of the Residential Conduct Board, which he described as an opportunity to help students in their lowest moments.
Moore has served in various capacities such as campaign coordinator for Representative Yvonne Hayes Hinson’s congressional bid and the north Florida political director and statewide faith outreach director on the 2022 Charlie Crist Gubernatorial campaign.
He currently serves as the chief of staff to State Representative Dianne Hart, chair of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus.
Moore aims for his life to be a testament to the faithfulness of God and a vision of hard work. When asked about his love for politics, Moore quotes his favorite hymn, saying that his work is a “charge to keep.”
“Politics should not be something you pursue for a title, power, or notoriety. It should be a calling, and burden that you carry,” Moore said. “I feel that politics should be a calling, something you take on because you truly want to help people.”
For more information about the Department of Political Science at FSU, visit coss.fsu.edu/polisci. For more information about the Masters of Applied American Politics and Policy, visit coss.fsu.edu/polisci/masters-of-applied-american-politics-policy.