The FAMU Board of Trustees will meet today and tomorrow to discuss the university's proposed 2025-26 operating budget and other matters. The 2025-26 operating budget of $414.4 million is a $36.9 year-over-year decrease from the 2024-25 year’s budget of $451.3 million.
The budget discussions come just a week after the Trustees met to approve a five-year, multi-million dollar contract for President-select Marva Johnson. Johnson’s appointment has been met with intense backlash from FAMU stakeholders, with over 18,000 people signing a petition opposing her appointment.
The proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year reflects a challenging financial landscape for the university. The decrease in funding will likely necessitate careful allocation of resources to ensure that FAMU can continue to provide quality education and support services to its students and faculty.
During the meeting, the Board of Trustees will review various aspects of the budget, including allocations for academic programs, student services, facilities maintenance, and operational costs. The discussions will be crucial in determining how the university will manage its financial resources in the coming year and address any potential shortfalls.
The timing of the budget discussions, following the controversial approval of Johnson’s contract, adds another layer of complexity to the university’s financial planning. Critics argue that the significant investment in Johnson’s compensation package could have a detrimental impact on other areas of the university, particularly given the overall budget reduction.
As the Board of Trustees prepares for the meeting, the FAMU community remains divided over the direction of the university. While some stakeholders express concern about the financial implications of Johnson’s contract, others are focused on the broader issues of leadership and the university’s mission.
The outcome of the budget discussions and the broader implications for FAMU’s future will be closely watched by students, faculty, alumni, and the wider community. The university’s ability to navigate these challenges will be critical in maintaining its commitment to excellence and serving its diverse student body.