Florida A&M University’s decision to name Marva Johnson its next president has ignited controversy and deep division within the university community.
Supporters tout her political savvy, while critics decry the process and her lack of higher education experience.
The Board of Trustees voted 8-4 on Friday to select Johnson, a telecommunications executive and former Florida State Board of Education member, as the 13th president of the state’s only public historically Black university.
The vote came after weeks of heated debate, protests, and public forums that saw alumni, students, and faculty voice strong opposition to her candidacy.
“Let me say it plainly, you cannot lead FAMU if you do not love FAMU,” said Kennedy Williams, vice president of the FAMU Student Government Association, during a campus rally. “And love is not just a word. It’s action. It’s history. It’s sacrifice.”
Critics: Lack of Transparency and Experience
Many in the FAMU community argue the selection process was rushed and lacked transparency. Johnson was added to the list of finalists late in the process, raising suspicions of political interference. Her close ties to Republican governors, including Ron DeSantis, and her lack of experience in higher education leadership have fueled concerns about her ability to uphold FAMU’s mission and independence.
“There was a lack of intellectual depth and a gap in cultural connection that was just painfully blatant,” said Board Chair Kirstin Harper. “In an age of merit-based hiring decisions, how can one justify settling for a candidate who does not meet all of the position criteria? Or turning a blind eye to exceptionally qualified candidates?”
At a recent meet-and-greet, Johnson faced a hostile crowd. Alumni and students questioned her qualifications and political affiliations. Some, like alumnus YuKwon Toney, argued, “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.”
The search for the 13th president of FAMU continues! Day Three included presidential candidate Marva Johnson, J.D. interviewing with our board of trustees along with meeting with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and our awesome community.
🐍 Let’s find our next leader! 🧡💚 pic.twitter.com/QYwNuOUxyo
— Florida A&M University (@FAMU_1887) May 15, 2025
“FAMU wants a leader that represents us and is not a political ploy who does not have experience in higher education, but someone who represents the true values of what our mother FAMU was founded on in 1887, that’s love and charity,” said student Elijah Hooks.
A petition titled “FAMU Deserves Better” has gathered over 12,000 signatures, and high-profile alumni like filmmaker Will Packer have publicly opposed the appointment.
Johnson’s supporters argue that her experience navigating state government and the corporate world is exactly what FAMU needs in a challenging political climate. They point to her ability to advocate for resources and work across party lines as critical assets.
“We have to survive in Florida,” said Jamal Brown, president of the Faculty Senate and a board member. “This moment calls for someone who understands the systems that fund and govern us, because right now our survival depends on how we navigate those systems.”
During her interview, Johnson addressed concerns about her background, stating, “As the leader, I am championing resources. I am moving mountains if they get in your way. I’m not going to be the best academian at this point in my career.”
Looking Ahead
As Johnson awaits confirmation by the state Board of Governors, the FAMU community remains divided. The controversy has underscored broader tensions over political influence in HBCU governance and the need for transparent, inclusive leadership.
