Interim President Larry Robinson laughing at a joke made by the repsentative of the IGNITE at SPC.
Photo credit: Adlernico Brioche
On Wednesday, Nov. 29, Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) Board of Trustees (BOT) held their meeting in the campus’s grand ballroom.
The governance committee gave their presidential evaluations to Larry Robinson, siding on if they agreed if he met or exceeded their expectations when it came to goals, management and leadership skills for the 2016-2017 academic year.
Trustee Belvin Perry Jr., one of the evaluation writers, felt that Robinson has done an outstanding job in strategic leadership and felt that he was truly a great leader. In addition to that, Perry also felt Robinson was able to adapt to changes in our programs, which he felt was most beneficial for the students at our university.
Robinson was met with a goal and objective plan for the 2017-2018 academic school year.
There was a major focus on the goal of providing exceptional student experience. The BOT wants to see an increase with the four-year and six-year graduation rates and put a focus on increasing enrollment and degree production.
Followed by the governance committee was the Presidential Leadership Committee.
The BOT discussed the engagement of RHR International’s consultation when it came to process of selection a new president.
Documents stated that the RHR International interviewed the BOT and other key stakeholders from the university. These interviews helped them achieve what they call the “Winning Formula Profile.” This profile suggested role imperatives, essential leadership behaviors, strategic thinking with crisp execution and more.
After going through these evaluations and reports, the BOT felt as if it was only right that Robinson be named the 12th president of Florida A&M University.
On Nov. 30, Robinson was unanimously voted in as the 12th president of FAMU.
This decision sat well with some better than others.
Brooklynn Gill, a second-year engineering student, felt as if she had not seen the leadership she wants in a president from Robinson.
“I am confused as to why he has been put into this position. When it comes to public speaking and faculty/student engagement there is a huge lack thereof.”
Gill expressed that she felt as if Dr. Robinson lacked what FAMU needs. She questioned Robinson’s true objectives for the university and for our student body.
On the other hand, Rakeem Ford, a senior business administration student and student senate president, agreed with the permanent placement of Robinson.
“I feel as if President Robinson was a good pick for the university,” Ford said.
Ford felt as if Robinson’s skills fit the needs of the university when it comes to student involvement. Unlike Gill, Ford felt as if Robinson was very approachable and that he is active around campus.
“With serving as Interim President three times before he has gained the skills to bring FAMU to new heights.”
Ford also expressed that we needed a president who is going to back up the student body because the students are the number one priority.