The Florida A&M University Board of Trustees voted Friday 8-4 for attorney Marva Johnson to be the university’s president-elect, contingent on approval from the Florida Board of Governors.
This vote comes days after the FAMU community gathered for a peaceful rally in opposition to Johnson’s candidacy. Titled “Hands Off My HBCU,” the Wednesday rally at Will Packer Amphitheater served as a public forum for students, instructors, alumni, and faith leaders to share thoughts surrounding the candidate and a call to action.
The event was organized by FAMU alumni, including high-profile alumnus Will Packer, and Leon County District 1 Commissioner Bill Proctor, who has spoken publicly about the integrity of the presidential search, along with Florida Student Association chief of staff Elijah Hooks, who created the Instagram account @famudeservesbetter with FAMU student Christian Aristilde.
Critics of Johnson, group vice president of the internet and cable TV company Charter Communications, have raised questions about her inclusion in the pool of four final candidates.
During her campus visit on Wednesday, Johnson—the only candidate without higher education experience—was questioned about her political allegiance, alleged Republican values, and her viability to lead FAMU, the #1 public historically Black college.
“Now I’ve done my homework,” YuKwon Toney, a FAMU alumnus and social media creator said during the rally. “Marva Johnson may have experience in telecommunications and policy, but her background does not reflect the commitment, presence, or proven leadership in higher education, especially at a historically Black college or university, that this moment definitely demands.”
This concern was also echoed by a Change.org petition, which has gathered 12,530 signatures as of Friday Morning.
“Let me say it plainly, you cannot lead FAMU if you do not love FAMU,” Kennedy Williams, vice president of the FAMU Student Government Association said at the rally. “And love is not just a word. It’s action. It’s history. It’s sacrifice.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.