Florida A&M President Larry Robinson delivered his annual State of the University address Wednesday, calling it “Sustaining Excellence.”
Robinson provided updates on the university’s six strategic priorities, explained how FAMU has maintained its record of success, and discussed plans to ensure the future excellence of Florida A&M University.
Provost Maurice Edington, who is also the vice president for the Office of Academic Affairs, opened the meeting by giving a warm welcome to listeners as well as provide an order of events.
Following Edington, Faculty Senate President Ann Marie Cavazos, who is a professor at the College of Law in Orlando, spoke highly of the professionalism within the faculty and students at FAMU. Cavazos recommended that FAMU continues to beat the odds that it has been forced to face on a daily basis.
“Sustained excellence is intentional. Sustained excellence is an ongoing process. Sustained excellence focuses on improving all persons. Sustained excellence requires collaborative commitment. Without the help of our FAMUly, we will not meet our goals,” Cavazos said.
Edington then introduced Robinson, the university’s 12th permanent president. Robinson opened his speech with a positive reflection of Wednesday’s inauguration at the nation’s capital.
“We are turning the page to a new light. Despite COVID-19 and the ongoing issue with race, today I am optimistic about the future of the university,” Robinson said.
Robinson noted that faculty and staff must remain safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. In doing that, he recommends students and staff use the new COVID-19 testing site at the new FAMU Employee Clubhouse on South Adams Street. He also suggested students use the portal on FAMU’s website to report their COVID-19 test results.
He announced that FAMU was given a limited amount of COVID-19 vaccines.
“I urge you to get the vaccination. This will be the only way we can beat the virus,” Robinson said.
“We have achieved excellence among the community. We cannot let our guard down,” Robinson added.
Robinson acknowledged outstanding students. FAMU’s College of Agricultural and Food Science’s student DeAundre Newsome was named one of the top students in his program.
Robinson reminded FAMU that as long as the faculty, staff and students remain focused on their goals and stay safe, that Florida A&M University will be able to make it through these tough times.
Robinson then opened the floor for any questions or concerns. The event lasted for about an hour, wrapping up around 4 p.m.