Florida A&M University President Marva Johnson had her first public sit-down interviews with local news stations to reflect on 100 days of leadership on Nov. 14, emphasizing immersion in FAMU’s culture to help aid in a smooth transition of power.
“I was able to meet with more than 4,000 students, faculty, staff, alumni, community partners, enterprise partners and legislators to really hear all of the voices that will help me shape our priorities for FAMU as we move forward,” Johnson said.
At the beginning of the fall semester, Johnson rolled out her 100-day action plan via email, unveiling her five pillars of impact; a lofty proposal focused on advancing FAMU’s academics, faculty and partnerships.
Johnson sat down with WANM’s news director Naji Rutherford to share a progress report.
In the first 100 days of her tenure, Johnson took action to stabilize FAMU’s financial and fiscal health with interim chief financial officer Nicole Murray, creating “sustainable, repeatable business processes.”
After dealing with scathing backlash from alumni and students in her confirmation process, several threats toward HBCUs and a complete change in the athletic department, Johnson assured that she is working to serve as a capable president, aiming to reach R1 Carnegie status in the near future.
“I’m having to face and manage this institution as it moves forward in an environment that’s slightly different,” Johnson said. “I’m excited by the challenge because we have to find ways that make bringing your resources, your time, and trusting FAMU with your future, an exciting opportunity still for students when there’s so many other options in front of them.”
