Job description

Tallahassee, FL

For complete information, See the Profiles here:

https://myersmcrae.com/skins/userfiles/files/Florida-AM_President_FINAL.pdf

The Florida A&M University Board of Trustees is seeking the next President of Florida A&M University. The right candidate should have a proven track record of leadership, be a results-driven leader who can effectively attract and manage high-quality talent to enable a high-performance culture, build consensus among stakeholders, and effectively respond to the evolving educational landscape.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY

Founded in 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), located in Tallahassee, is the third oldest university in Florida’s State University System and is the state’s only public historically Black university. FAMU is an energetic and dynamic institution, acclaimed for the excellent achievement of its students, alumni, faculty, and its contribution to society in the pursuit of education and research. The university works every day to continue to propel itself to the forefront of innovation and scholarship. In recent years, the University has doubled its research expenditures and outpaced its peers in student achievement rates.

With an enrollment of nearly 10,000 students, FAMU ranks among the nation’s Top 100 public universities in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” ranking, landing at #81; #3 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities; #1 public HBCU; #20 for Social Mobility; and #152 among National Universities.

FAMU’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of discovery propels it forward as one of the nation’s best public universities. Across disciplines, FAMU’s world-class researchers seek answers to some of humanity’s most challenging problems, addressing issues that impact Florida, the nation and beyond. With $112.4M (FY24) in research awards, FAMU is on the precipice to achieve Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education’s highest and most coveted Very High Research Activity status (R1) in the next few years.

FAMU’s 14 colleges and schools, offer more than 60 undergraduate and 40 graduate degree programs, through its College of Agriculture and Food Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, College of Education, College of Law, College of Science and Technology, College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, School of Allied Health Sciences, School of Architecture & Engineering Technology, School of Business and Industry, School
of Graduate Studies and Research, School of Journalism & Graphic Communications, School of Nursing, and School of the Environment.

The university offers more than 100 student organizations and several fraternities and sororities. FAMU is a member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and fields 14 NCAA Division 1 athletic teams.

In addition to the main Tallahassee campus, FAMU has several satellite campuses across Florida. These include the University of Law in Orlando and the University of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, which has sites in Crestview, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami.

FAMU Boldly Striking Strategic Plan Click to download the plan.

Florida Board of Governor’s 2023 Strategic Plan Click to download the draft copy.

FAMU Mission

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is an 1890 land grant, doctoral/research institution devoted to student success at the undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and professional levels. FAMU enhances the lives of its constituents and empowers communities through innovative teaching, research, scholarship, partnerships, and public service. The University continues its rich legacy and historic mission of educating African Americans.

FAMU Vision

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University will be recognized as a leading national public university that is internationally renowned for its competitive graduates, transformative research, and innovation.

FAMU Values

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is committed to the values of accountability, Inclusion, innnovation, and integrity. The University also values and endorses the Board
of Governors’ Statement of Free Expression and expects open-minded and tolerant civil discourse
to take place throughout the campus community.

FAMU Board of Trustees

The FAMU Board of Trustees is the governing body of the University and is charged with policymaking for the University. Trustees serve without compensation and meet at least quarterly. The president serves as the corporate secretary to the Board of Trustees. The president has the responsibility for the day-to-day management of the University.

FAMU Foundation

The FAMU Foundation is a non-profit organization, established with the specific mandate to serve as a custodian of contributions from the private sector, alumni, friends, and industry. The Foundation receives, invests, and administers funds. The president serves as an ex-officio member of the Board of Directors.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The presidency at Florida A&M University (FAMU) provides a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic institution poised for continued growth and achievement. The new president will have an opportunity to expand academic and research programs to meet the growing economic demands of Florida and the nation.

FAMU seeks a bold, innovative, inspirational, and strategic visionary who will be an unwavering champion for students and the programs that have driven the institution’s momentum.

The ideal candidate will be a fiscally minded, results-driven leader who has the proven ability to drive strategic direction with the experience and ability to integrate with the external constituents of the university. They must inspire excellence in others and bring exceptional experience and enthusiasm for leadership within and beyond the walls of the institution.

Moreover, the candidate must possess the presence, communication skills, and eagerness to actively engage in fundraising and to promote the university externally. The successful candidate must exhibit the highest level of integrity, earn and maintain public trust, and show a commitment to transparency, ethical leadership, shared governance, and free expression.

With a focus on continuous improvement and upward trajectory, the President will be a problem-solver, a listener, and an innovator. The President will drive the University’s continued progress as outlined in the 2022–27 Boldly Striking Strategic Plan and the Florida Board of Governors’ Strategic Plan by enhancing the quality of the student educational experience, elevating FAMU’s performance on internal and external metrics, and fostering faculty excellence.

A confident and perceptive administrator who can make difficult decisions and pursue strategic courses of action, the President will work collaboratively with others, internally and externally, finding common ground among diverse viewpoints. The President will value the contributions of faculty and staff while seeking to advance FAMU’s mission and goals to
new levels.

The President will understand the significant role the institution plays in the community at large and will have an active presence in the community promoting partnerships, seeking support, and developing relationships that benefit the University, its students, and its employees. He or she will also be visible and active on all campuses.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Administration

• Strategic Leadership: Assumes full responsibility for the organization, administration, and leadership of the University. Provides leadership for the academic programs and student support services.
• Policy and Planning: Makes policy recommendations to the Board of Trustees on all matters affecting the university and recognizes their oversight. Conducts appropriate planning for the University.
• Performance Improvement: Continually assesses productivity, student success, and financial metrics to enhance the University’s performance according to the Florida Board of Governors’ performance funding metrics.

Florida Board of Governor’s 2023 Metrics Click to download the draft copy

Financial Management and Fundraising

• Financial Oversight: Possesses a thorough understanding of various funding models with a history of sound financial management.
• Fundraising and Grants: Directs and supports fundraising and grant solicitation activities to enhance financial resources available for programs and services.

Community and Partnerships

• Partnership Building: Promotes partnerships with businesses, educational agencies, civic organizations, military bases, and community groups to benefit the University and community.
• Advocacy: Advocates on behalf of the University with state and federal governments for the benefit of the University.
• Community Engagement: Provides leadership for the University’s involvement and support in community activities. Acts as the public relations contact for the University.

Compliance and Policy

• Policy Adherence: Adheres to and ensures compliance with all University and Board policies in accordance with Florida Statutes and the State Board of Governors. Exercises broad discretionary power to carry out BOT policy. Serves as Corporate Secretary for the Board of Trustees, engaging in policy recommendations.
• Legal and Accreditation Compliance: Ensures familiarity with institutional, NCAA, and athletic accreditation processes and legal requirements, administering contracts, and recommending site locations and utilization in compliance with regulations.

Faculty and Staff Development

• Professional Development: Commits to professional development and success for all faculty and staff, fostering an entrepreneurial spirit and an institutional climate of professionalism.

Additional Responsibilities

• Performs other similar related duties as may be delegated by the Board of Trustees, including lending influence in the development of higher education on local, state, and national levels.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Educational Requirements

• Terminal degree or significant professional achievement, recognition, and prestige are required.
• Combined administrative and academic experience at a research university and experience with D1 athletics are preferred.
• Individuals with the requisite leadership experience in education, industry, government, the military, or other sectors and whose experience will further the mission of Florida A&M University will be given full consideration.

TALLAHASSEE

Tallahassee is the site of the Florida State Capitol, Supreme Court of Florida, Florida Governor’s Mansion, and nearly 30 state agency headquarters as well as Florida A&M University.

The city is a recognized regional center for scientific research, and home to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. In 2015, Tallahassee was awarded the All-America City Award by the National Civic League for the second time.

Close to the Gulf of Mexico, there is a plethora of things to do in Tallahassee. Great adventures and sites include the beaches, the Tallahassee Museum, the Florida History Museum, St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, Mission St. Luis de Apalachee, St. Marks Lighthouse, the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, Railroad Square Art District, the Meek-Eaton Black Archives Research Center and Museum at FAMU, the Goodwood Museum and Gardens, Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park, Cascades Park, and many more walking and biking trails, outdoor exploration, and activities. Restaurants and shops are plentiful and superb.

Tallahassee is also known for its fabulous festivals and events, such as the Tallahassee Food and Wine Festival, the Greek Food Festival, the Harambee Festival, Springtime Tallahassee, First Friday festivals
at Railroad Square, and Downtown Getdowns.

Confidential inquiries are welcomed, and nominations are invited.

How to apply

1) All application packets must include the following:

1. a) Cover letter that describes strengths, skills, and knowledge that will benefit this position
2. b) Current curriculum vitae or résumé
3. c) At least five references with full contact information including e-mail (References will not be contacted without consent from applicant.)

A background and criminal report will be conducted on the finalists selected for campus interviews.

2) Submit application materials online, preferably as PDFs. Additional information is requested with the submission of materials. For best consideration, complete applications should be received before March 14, 2025.

Nominations

Submit nominations with complete contact and e-mail information for the individual being nominated.

Consultants

Kenny Daugherty, President of Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting, is conducting this search with Brianna Douglas, Vice President, assisting. Request a conversation at [email protected].

The Florida A&M University (FAMU) is committed, as evident in our policies, principles and practices, to an educational environment and equal opportunity workplace wherein each member of the University community is free from any form of harassment and discrimination. Therefore, the University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, religion, color, age, disability, sex, sexual harassment, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, genetic information, and veteran status, or any other legally protected group status (including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972), in accordance with state and federal laws. Discriminatory conduct in the form of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic and dating violence, and stalking, is also prohibited.