A group of alumni from Florida A&M University (FAMU) has filed a petition against the university’s Board of Trustees and the Florida Board of Governors, questioning the legitimacy of Marva Johnson’s selection as president. The petition, led by attorneys Mutaqee Akbar and Ennis Jacobs, seeks an investigation into the presidential search process, which they argue was flawed and politically influenced.
According to the petition, concerns have been raised about Johnson’s qualifications for the role, with critics citing her lack of relevant experience for the presidency. The filing also highlights alleged improprieties in the selection process, including claims that Johnson was added as a finalist at the last minute, with suspicions that the decision was influenced by the FAMU Board Vice Chair Deveron Gibbons, who chaired the search committee. Gibbons has dismissed these speculations, insisting that the search was conducted fairly.
The group of alumni asserts that the Board of Trustees’ decision to select Johnson did not adhere to due process requirements and seems to contravene established rules for the search process. As part of their arguments, they noted delays in hiring a search firm and issues with transparency, alongside the Florida Legislature’s recent decision to allocate additional funds to support Johnson’s salary, which is projected to be around $839,400 in her first year.
Interestingly, this petition emerges as the Florida Board of Governors prepares for a crucial meeting where Johnson’s confirmation will be considered. Although the timing of the filing could be seen as an attempt to halt the confirmation, Jacobs clarified that the goal is more about ensuring the selection process undergoes thorough scrutiny rather than seeking a delay in the board’s meeting.
This situation highlights ongoing tensions within FAMU regarding governance and transparency, reflecting broader concerns in higher education about the influences of politics in university leadership appointments. Alumni and stakeholders are advocating for a more transparent process, which could set a precedent for future selections within the state’s university system.
The outcome of the petition remains to be seen, but it underscores the importance of proper governance and accountability in educational institutions, with hopes that it will lead to meaningful changes in how leadership positions are filled in the future.