President of FAMU Larry Robinson Declares His Retirement

Retirement Amid University Challenges

Larry Robinson, the president of Florida A&M University, has declared his intention to retire.
FAMU Board of Trustees Chair Kristin Harper emailed board members on Friday morning about Robinson’s decision. The communication also included Robinson’s resignation letter.

The shocking revelation comes sharply after the university’s recent low points, which include a questionable and since “ceased” $237 million donation from Texas hemp farmer Gregory Gerami, which went viral and is presently being investigated, as well as subpar licensure program results that raised questions with the Florida Board of Governors.

Trustees Informed by Robinson’s Decision

Robinson’s choice was validated by FAMU trustee Kelvin Lawson over the phone on Friday morning. “I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign,” Robinson wrote in his resignation letter. “With tremendous gratitude for the privilege of leading our beloved Florida A&M University as Interim President in 2016 and President beginning in 2017, and with much optimism for its future,” Robinson wrote.

Future of FAMU

“I will fulfill all of my current contract obligations and entrust the exact date determination to the Board’s preferences.” The decision follows Robinson’s nearly seven-year tenure at the university, during which, despite setbacks recently, he has also had several accomplishments..

Last year, the university achieved another of Robinson’s long-standing objectives: it was ranked among the top 100 public universities in the country.