Robinson should lead FAMU throughout entire interim period

FAMU Interim President Larry Robinson has what it takes to lead a Carnegie Doctoral/Research University. He should remain in charge while the Board of Trustees searches for a permanent president.

The challenges FAMU faces today require the leadership of a top-rate scholar. FAMU must answer questions from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools about student safety, fill a large number of academic positions, and continue its progress toward raising its graduation and retention rates.

This is not the time for an interim president who has little experience with the specific demands of running a research university.

Student Body President Marissa West had it right when she said: “I think right now, we can’t afford any type of experiment” in the presidential position.

Back on July 16, Rattler Nation broke the news about the names of several potential interim presidents that were being circulated among certain FAMU trustees. While all those individuals have many accomplishments, none of them could provide the academic leadership that FAMU needs right now.

Robinson’s career achievements also stand at the same level as those of the other potential interim presidents who’ve been mentioned. For example, two of the individuals received military commission appointments from former U.S. President George W. Bush. Robinson received a cabinet-level appointment from current U.S. President Barack Obama.

The selection of Robinson as interim president did not sit well with the FAMU trustees who are in Gov. Rick Scott’s pocket. There has been political pressure against seating an interim president who has a strong commitment to research and is viewed favorably by the Obama administration.

Rufus Montgomery, Scott’s go-to-trustee, went on the attack during Monday’s board teleconference call and insulted his fellow members for the quick decision to appoint Robinson. He threw a fit when the other trustees brushed off his attempts to push them to consider other names.

Charles Langston and Bill Jennings came to Rufus’ aid by also urging the consideration of other names, but used a politer approach. Jennings eventually gave up the fight in frustration and focused on gathering enough votes to place another obstacle in front of Robinson’s appointment. Robinson will face a final “confirmation” vote at the upcoming board meeting next month.

The attacks against Robinson are continuing, but FAMUans should hold the line against political interference and urge the board to keep Robinson at the helm for the entire interim period. The stakes are too high to let the trustees who support Scott’s agenda for FAMU bring in an interim president who will take the university backwards.