FAMU names former "Teacher of the Year" and Pasco-Hernando State College president as interim leader

In a move to ensure stability and leadership, the FAMU Board of Trustees has agreed to bring in retired Pasco-Hernando State College President Tim Beard to serve as the interim leader of the University. This decision comes after the resignation of President Larry Robinson, who will be stepping down on August 4, just two days after the summer graduation ceremony.

Board of Trustees Chairwoman Kristin Harper proposed Beard for the interim position, emphasizing his integrity, collaborative nature, and readiness to serve the university during this transitional period. "I'm convinced that he's a person of integrity, a collaborator, and what FAMU needs in this interim chapter," Harper stated during an online meeting of the trustees. She added that Beard's hiring is contingent upon successful contract negotiations and approval by the state university system's Board of Governors.

President Robinson, who has led the state’s only historically Black public university for nearly seven years, announced his resignation on July 12. He is expected to return to the faculty following a year-long sabbatical.

The trustees are scheduled to discuss the national search for a new president during a retreat in August. Beard’s appointment, if approved, would be for up to 12 months, with a stipulation that he would not be eligible to apply for or be considered for the permanent presidency.

While no salary for Beard was discussed during the meeting, it is noted that he earned $311,402 in his final year at Pasco-Hernando State College, where he served as president from 2015 to January 2024. For comparison, Florida Atlantic University Interim President Stacy Volnick, who has held that position since 2022, earns $525,000 a year. Robinson's base salary at FAMU is roughly $452,000.

During the discussion, Trustee Otis Cliatt cautioned against granting the interim president too much power, expressing concerns about potential disruptive changes. "I don't want to have an interim that comes in and brings their staff, completely cleans house, and then we go through and we hire a permanent, who comes in and does the same thing," Cliatt said, highlighting the potential for self-inflicted wounds to the university.

Trustee Belvin Perry Jr. countered by saying he does not expect Beard to "come in with a hatchet," but emphasized the need for the interim leader to have the ability to make necessary changes to propel the university forward. "We just don't stop and pause the business of the university," Perry said. "We’ve got things that we are facing."

Beard's extensive experience includes 14 years in faculty and administrative positions at FAMU, Florida State University, and the University of South Alabama.   He was recognized as the FAMU’s “Teacher of the Year” in 2001. His familiarity with FAMU and his proven leadership in the higher education sector make him a strong candidate to guide the university through this interim period.