Marva Johnson officially confirmed as FAMU president despite vocal opposition

Florida A&M College entered a brand new period Wednesday because the Florida Board of Governors unanimously confirmed Marva Johnson, J.D., because the establishment’s thirteenth president, marking a pivotal second for the state’s solely public traditionally Black college.

Johnson, a telecommunications government and veteran schooling coverage chief, was chosen by the FAMU Board of Trustees final month after a nationwide search narrowed the sector to 4 finalists. Her appointment follows the tenure of Larry Robinson, who led the college from 2017 to 2024.

“It’s a profound honor to be chosen because the thirteenth president of Florida A&M College—a historic establishment with a wealthy legacy formed by giants,” Johnson mentioned in a press release. “I’m able to convey a daring, business-minded, results-driven method to advancing scholar success, monetary sustainability, and long-term institutional development.”

Johnson’s in depth resume consists of management roles within the cable and telecommunications business, most not too long ago as group vice chairman at Constitution Communications, and vital expertise in public schooling coverage. She beforehand chaired the Florida State Board of Training, the place she championed initiatives to enhance scholar outcomes, together with performance-based funding and accountability measures aimed toward closing achievement gaps.

Marva Johnson, J.D., is confirmed as thirteenth President of FAMU!

Johnson mentioned she stays dedicated to defending and lengthening FAMU’s legacy and bringing a student-centered imaginative and prescient targeted on success, development & long-term sustainability for the Hill.

A brand new period begins Aug. 1 🐍 pic.twitter.com/9zLIxNHQ5I

— Florida A&M College (@FAMU_1887) June 18, 2025

Her affirmation comes amid vocal opposition from segments of the FAMU group. Many college students, alumni, and college expressed issues about Johnson’s shut ties to Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, whose administration has enacted insurance policies proscribing range, fairness, and inclusion initiatives at Florida universities. Critics argued that Johnson’s background in enterprise and authorities, somewhat than greater schooling, and her alignment with state management may impression the college’s course and traditions.

Regardless of the controversy, state officers praised Johnson’s appointment. Chancellor Raymond Rodrigues known as her “an asset in her new position,” highlighting her ardour for public service and schooling. Brian Lamb, chair of the Board of Governors, mentioned Johnson’s “visionary management” and company connections would improve FAMU’s profession pipeline and nationwide profile.

Johnson will formally start her presidency on August 1, 2025. She turns into solely the second girl to steer FAMU in its historical past.

As she prepares to take the helm, Johnson emphasised her dedication to upholding FAMU’s legacy and mission. “FAMU’s tradition and impression are unmatched, and I’m dedicated to upholding and amplifying that legacy as we transfer ahead collectively,” she mentioned