TSR Investigates
Marva Johnson, a lobbyist with an unapparent background in higher education, was recently named the new president of Florida A&M University. In addition to the prestigious title, Johnson is also taking on a $650,000 annual salary.
The decision has sparked outrage at the university. Some believe Johnson’s ties to Florida Republicans aided her the opportunity. Additionally, they believe her ascension indicates a political agenda that could threaten HBCUs nationally.
Now, The Shade Room’s Justin Carter is breaking down the university’s selection process and speaking with those about the decision on ‘TSR Investigates.’
Is FAMU under attack? And what does this mean for other HBCUs?
According to Carter, Florida A&M University was searching for its next president for months. Then, last month, the school’s presidential committee added Johnson as a last-minute candidate to the pool. Johnson reportedly is a lobbyist, executive for Charter Communications, and a former member of the Florida State Board of Education. To note, the board has recently made headlines for limiting the study of African American history in Florida schools.
Despite protests, Johnson was selected president of the university. This left the public to speculate about a greater “plan” being at work.
“All a part of the plan… enrollment numbers will drop, school shuttered, and we lose another great institution,” Archibald Pinder, a Facebook user, wrote on the platform.
Tiffani A. Young, an FAMU alum, told Carter that the “lack of transparency” in the process sparked widespread concern. Per Young, she says the university had other candidates who were qualified for the position.
“You had 50-60 finalists who had academic backgrounds… It’s like, ‘Hey, I served on a board for a hospital for the last eight years.’ But does that mean you can now go and be a doctor or go and be a CEO of a hospital?” Young posed.
Scroll above to watch as Carter speaks with FAMU representatives who share their sentiments on the school’s decision. Additionally, Carter details the current climate surrounding other HBCUs and colleges across the country. Lastly, Carter shares a recent statement from Johnson as one FAMU graduate details why they’re remaining optimistic despite the looming uncertainty.
