As Florida A&M University continues its search for a new president, growing concerns from alumni, students, and advocacy groups have sparked a broader conversation about transparency and political influence at one of the nation’s top HBCUs.
The Florida A&M University Board of Trustees recently advanced several finalists for the role, but the process has drawn scrutiny—especially with the emergence of Charter Communications executive Marva Johnson as a leading contender. While Johnson has experience in policy and education, critics are questioning whether the selection process has been shaped more by political alignment than academic or institutional fit.
Adora Obi Nweze, president of the NAACP Florida State Conference, issued a public statement urging FAMU’s board to prioritize transparency and community input. “This process should be about FAMU’s future, not about political pressure,” she stated, echoing concerns voiced by other members of the university’s vast alumni network.
Some FAMU supporters worry that the influence of Florida’s current political climate—particularly the state’s moves to reduce DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programming—may be creeping into the governance of public HBCUs. These concerns are not new but have intensified amid broader statewide debates over the role of race and identity in higher education.
The FAMU National Alumni Association has also expressed interest in ensuring the new president understands the unique cultural and academic mission of Florida A&M University, emphasizing that HBCUs require leadership grounded in both community and vision.
While the Board of Trustees has stated that the process remains fair and comprehensive, members of the FAMU community are calling for more public engagement and communication around the finalists’ qualifications, visions, and alignment with the university’s core values.
Florida A&M University, founded in 1887, has long stood as a pillar of Black academic excellence. With recent national attention—from the Marching 100’s high-profile performances to millions in federal and private funding—the university is at a critical point in its development. Alumni and stakeholders say this is not the time for political compromise, but for bold, informed leadership.
The presidential search continues amid ongoing discussion, and FAMU’s students and supporters remain hopeful that the final decision will reflect the legacy and potential of this historic institution.
For now, all eyes remain on FAMU as it approaches a leadership crossroads with implications far beyond Tallahassee.