Marva Johnson Selected as New President of FAMU

Students and alumni engaging in discussions on university campus

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News Summary

The Board of Trustees at Florida A&M University has appointed Marva Johnson as the new president despite backlash from students and alumni over her qualifications. Critics have raised concerns over her political affiliations, lack of higher education experience, and potential impact on the university’s reputation. A petition against her selection has garnered nearly 16,000 signatures. Johnson’s appointment is pending approval and has sparked a wider debate about the future leadership of FAMU.

TALLAHASSEE, FL – Marva Johnson has been selected as the new president of Florida A&M University (FAMU) by the university’s Board of Trustees, despite facing significant backlash from alumni and students regarding her qualifications and connections to Governor Ron DeSantis. This decision was made on May 19, 2025, and is pending approval from the State University System’s Board of Governors on June 18, 2025. Johnson’s salary is projected to be between $450,000 and $750,000.

The appointment occurred amid a visible public outcry, with critics labeling Johnson as “MAGA Marva” due to her affiliations with the GOP and ties to the DeSantis administration. Many alumni and students have expressed serious concerns about her suitability for the role, particularly highlighting her lack of experience in higher education management.

A Change.org petition opposing Johnson’s selection has already gathered nearly 16,000 signatures from the FAMU community. Notable alumni, including Hollywood producer Will Packer, have vocally opposed her candidacy, emphasizing the necessity for the university to steer clear of further controversy that could tarnish its reputation.

The Board of Trustees’ meeting that concluded with Johnson’s selection was described as tense, revealing divisions among board members regarding the decision. Some trustees advocated for a more traditional candidate, while others pushed for the unconventional choice of Johnson. Notably, Board chair Kristin Harper was replaced in contract negotiations with Johnson by trustee Nicole Washington following a board vote.

Johnson’s background as a lobbyist for Charter Communications and her previous role on the Florida State Board of Education have been points of contention. Many trustees, including Belvin Perry Jr., articulated concerns about her strong political affiliations and the lack of broad community support during the deliberations. The dispute escalated to a procedural conflict that influenced the votes on Johnson’s selection and the authority granted for contract negotiations.

Concerns regarding Johnson’s presidency extend to potential impacts on university funding, academic initiatives, and overall institutional integrity. Students voiced their disappointment and fears about how her leadership could negatively affect enrollment numbers and tarnish FAMU’s hard-earned reputation.

During her acceptance of the role, Johnson stated her commitment to furthering FAMU’s legacy and emphasized the importance of building strategic partnerships to enhance the institution’s standing and attract financial support.

Other candidates considered for the presidency included Donald Palm, Gerald Hector, and Rondall Allen. Palm notably received backing from the alumni association, further illustrating the divide in support for Johnson’s candidacy within the FAMU community.

The Board of Trustees’ contentious selection process has spotlighted a broader debate about the future of FAMU, particularly in terms of leadership style, strategic direction, and the cultural values that define the institution. As Johnson prepares to take the helm, the university community remains watchful and concerned about the potential ramifications of this pivotal decision.