Florida A&M Names Interim President Following Current President’s Resignation

TALLAHASSEE, FL – Florida A&M University (FAMU), the state’s only public historically Black university, has appointed Timothy Beard as its interim president following the announcement of the current president’s resignation.

Beard’s appointment comes during a tumultuous time for the university, particularly after concerns arose regarding a multimillion-dollar donation from a questionable donor. He will be responsible for addressing the fallout from this situation while navigating increased political scrutiny of higher education in Florida, especially regarding perceived underperforming programs at the university.

Prior to this role, Beard served as the president of Pasco-Hernando State College, located north of Tampa. He holds a Ph.D. from Florida State University and is an alumnus of FAMU, where he worked as a professor and administrator.

FAMU has been recognized for its improvement in national rankings and has a strong legacy of producing some of Florida’s top Black professionals and politicians. The university is committed to supporting first-generation students and those from low-income families, although it has faced challenges, including the recent donation controversy and previous allegations of mismanagement.

Kristin Harper*, chair of the FAMU Board, expressed confidence in Beard’s abilities, stating, “In my opinion, Dr. Beard has the academic pedigree, administrative experience, political capital, and emotional intelligence to lead in this interim period.”

The FAMU Board confirmed Beard’s position as interim president on the condition that he does not seek the role of permanent president. Pending contract negotiations, he is expected to officially assume office on August 5. The state’s Board of Governors must also confirm his appointment, though the timeline for this confirmation has not been specified.

The current president, Dr. Larry Robinson, will remain in his position until August 4, allowing him to preside over the final student commencement on August 2. At a graduation ceremony in May, Robinson stood on stage in his academic regalia, holding a jumbo check for $237 million — which would have been the single largest private donation to an HBCU if it ever materialized. An external investigation into this donation is still ongoing.