FAMU athletics deserves better

In a surprising move, the FAMU Foundation is advancing Marvin Green as the sole finalist for the position of chief fundraiser for the FAMU Athletic Department. Green is a well-connected FAMU insider who is married to a fellow well-connected FAMU alumna. However, the potential appointment has raised eyebrows due to Green's lack of actual fundraising experience.

FAMU Athletics, like many college athletic programs, this year is facing financial challenges. The department is operating in the red, spending more money than it takes in.  This financial strain occurs at a time when the athletic landscape is rapidly changing, and in recent years, FAMU has repeatedly turned to the Foundation to cover athletic expenses.  

Athletics also needs to raise new funds to make immediate facilities upgrades, better support student-athletes, cover coaches salaries, improve nutrition for student athletes, potentially add additional sports (FAMU currently fields the bare minimum for NCAA Division 1), and provide funding for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities.

Green has held various positions at FAMU over the years, moving through different roles with varying degrees of success. However, his tenure at the university ultimately ended with his embarrassing dismissal. Critics argue that FAMU athletics financial challenges are so severe that it needs an experienced fundraiser, not a patronage appointee who simply needs a job.

Despite these concerns, the FAMU Foundation is standing by their decision, emphasizing Green's deep connections within the FAMU community and his understanding of the university's needs. They believe his insider knowledge and passion for the institution will help him succeed in the role. 

However, many members of the FAMU community are skeptical. "We need someone with a proven track record in fundraising, not just someone who is friends with the right people," said a concerned alum and athletic booster who wished to remain anonymous. "The athletic department a needs well-oiled fundraising machine who can help it gain financial stability.  The stakes are high, we can't afford to take risks."

The outcome of this appointment could have significant implications for the future of FAMU Athletics, as the department navigates its financial challenges and strives to provide the best possible support for its student-athletes.  

FAMU's new Vice President and Director of Athletics Angela Suggs, was hired --- a little over 90 days ago--- with the expressed task of bringing in new external resources and raising funds. It is crucial that she is not hindered by the FAMU Foundation with an inexperienced fundraiser who will need to learn on the job and take years to become proficient. She needs a true fundraiser now, not someone's buddy.

FAMU must get this right!  FAMU Athletics deserves better !