Resistance to the FAMU takeover solidifies behind Palm
Tallahassee—Alumni, faculty, students, celebrities, faith organizations, and a popular blog site are rallying against what they call a “hostile takeover” of the nation’s top Historically Black University, Florida A&M. Adding Marva Johnson as a finalist in the presidential selection process was challenged by selection committee members but was never addressed. Johnson is the favorite of Governor Ron DeSantis. Dubbed “MAGA Marva,” the blog site Rattle Nation wrote several articles slamming her lack of university administrative experience or necessary academic credentials to manage 14 colleges and schools.
Famed movie producer Will Packer, a Rattler, launched an Instagram call to action, warning of the “activist Republican assault on HBCUs that targets our beloved FAMU.” Packer goes on to say that Johnson is incapable of taking the reins of FAMU. He will join the faith community in a rally on Wednesday, May 14, at the FAMU Will Packer Amphitheater, starting at 9:00 a.m.
While the criticism of Johnson has been central to the alleged politicization of the selection process, it didn’t stop efforts to push the candidacy of the governor’s choice.
The intense lobbying of FAMU influencers by Republican trustees sparked contentious arguments but failed to sway opposition to the GOP-backed candidates. The result was the same when Johnson called a powerful former elected official, asking for help with community support. The official said he was unable to assist.
Meanwhile, Board of Governors Chair Brian Lamb pivoted to voice support for CPA Gerald Hector, which appeared to be an alternative to Johnson, according to a person familiar with the conversation. However, neither candidate, Hector nor Rondall Allen, PharmD, has garnered the support of stakeholders. As a Howard University graduate, it’s presumed he would aspire to the president’s chair at his alma mater. Observers say taking the path through rival FAMU is probably not a good idea..
The FAMUly overwhelmingly supports Donald Palm, the only PhD in the group. The National Alumni Association recently endorsed him with an 81% vote. His credentials check all the boxes because he is familiar with the FAMU culture, possesses the necessary experience, and holds the academic credentials essential for growing the institution’s research profile. Those assets give him a clear advantage over the other candidates. It’s probably the reason Palm bested all candidates by receiving 13 out of 15 votes from the search committee.
Efforts to undermine Palm’s support emerged with the Board of Governors’ recent removal of BOT member Ernie Ellison, who was considered a Palm supporter. The Board of Trustees could make its choice as early as Friday, sending that selection to the Board of Governors for approval.
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