The FAMU Board of Trustees named Larry Robinson as interim president of Florida A&M University Wednesday as the historically black college tries to recover from a series of blows that have tarnished its image.
By unanimous affirmation, the board followed up on a decision last month to place Robinson, provost and vice president for academic affairs, at the helm following the resignation of James Ammons.
“I feel very comfortable having worked day to day with him,” said board chairman Solomon Badger. “I would like to dispel the notion that meekness is a weakness. He is quietly effective. “
Robinson takes over during tumultuous times at FAMU, which is responding to the hazing death in November of Marching 100 drum major Robert Champion, poor retention rates, sexual abuse charges and questionable audit practices. The board also determined that Robinson, who will make $325,000 a year, would not be eligible to make the position permanent.
