ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Will Packer, a record-breaking Hollywood producer and St. Pete native, is adding something new to his long list of accomplishments. This time, it’s in the form of a building bearing his name.

During homecoming week on Friday, Florida A&M University unveiled the school’s brand new amphitheater. It’s the Will Packer Performing Arts Amphitheater to be exact. Packer is a FAMU alumni and one of the university’s biggest supporters. He donated $500,000 for the naming of amphitheater.

During his speech he pointed out the names on the other buildings at the historically Black college that were there before most of this generation was even born. 

“I had no idea I’d be standing here. See there’s nothing against Lee Hall. Nothing against Davis, Samson, Young or Gibbs but I didn’t know them. I didn’t meet Perry or Paige but y'all know me. I’m one of y'all. This ain't just about me. This is about us,” Packer said.

The movie mogul was born and raised in St. Petersburg and he graduated from St. Pete High School. He hopes this latest accomplishment serves as inspiration to kids in those same neighborhoods he grew up in and beyond.

He has produced and executive produced a number of films, including “Night School,”  “Girls Trip,”  “Ride Along 2" and many more.  

Packer was also recently named the official producer of the 94th Academy Awards in 2022.