By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.
Considering the recent presidential selection at Florida A&M University and the thoughtful reflections shared by Rev. R.B. Holmes in his recent op-ed, I wanted to reach out to you directly. As someone deeply committed to the continued excellence and integrity of FAMU, I feel it is both timely and necessary to seek clarity, insight, and leadership from members of the Board of Trustees, especially during this pivotal moment in our institution’s history. Many in the FAMU community, while respectful of the Board’s authority, have expressed concerns about the selection process and the future direction of our beloved university. In the spirit of transparency, healing, and unity, I’d be grateful if you would consider addressing some of those concerns.
—Bobby R. Henry, Sr. Publisher – Westside Gazette
In the wake of the recent and closely watched presidential selection at Florida A&M University (FAMU), Board of Trustees member Deveron Gibbons is offering candid insights into the process, his support for President-Elect Marva Johnson, and how the university can move forward together. His comments come amid impassioned public discussion and a widely shared op-ed from Rev. R.B. Holmes calling for transparency, unity, and healing.
“First and foremost, I want the FAMU community to know that I hear them,” Gibbons said in an exclusive interview. “These are not just political decisions or procedural steps we are making choices that shape the future of our university. I understand the weight of that responsibility.”
On Transparency and the Selection Process
Responding to Rev. Holmes’s acknowledgment of public frustration, Gibbons directly addressed concerns over how the decision was made.
“I don’t dismiss anyone’s concerns. But I do want people to know this wasn’t a rushed or reckless process,” he said. “It was guided by policy, by input from various stakeholders, and by a vision of where we believe FAMU must go.”
Gibbons emphasized that the Board of Trustees adhered strictly to the established procedure, adding:
“The search process is a process that is given to every university—by the Board of Governors. It has been well documented and recorded that our committee followed that prescribed process to the letter. We didn’t deviate or make any changes. The process, in fact, was applied by the BOG member that served on the committee.”
Why Marva Johnson?
Gibbons cited Johnson’s strategic acumen, statewide connections, and commitment to innovation as key reasons for his support.
“Marva brings a level of experience in educational policy and governance that is uniquely suited to lead in today’s complex higher education environment,” he said. “While Dr. Palm was a strong candidate, Ms. Johnson’s vision for expanding FAMU’s impact aligned with what I believe we need in this moment.”
Rebuilding Trust and Unifying the Rattler Nation
With calls for unity growing louder, Gibbons acknowledged the importance of restoring confidence.
“We have must engage, listen, and be present. That means town halls, clear communication, and a genuine openness to criticism and not defensiveness. Healing requires humility.”
He emphasized that none of the trustees, including himself, are working to undermine FAMU.
“There’s no secret agenda here. We are all Rattlers. My commitment is unshakable: to elevate this institution for the next generation.”
Supporting the President-Elect
As for supporting Johnson, Gibbons said the Board is focused on equipping her for success from day one.
“We’ll ensure she has the resources, relationships, and room to lead. The first 100 days will be about listening, assessing, and setting a clear agenda.”
Benchmarks will include strengthening academic programs, addressing student concerns, and maintaining FAMU’s position among top HBCUs.
A Call for Constructive Engagement
In response to community members asking how they can engage moving forward, Gibbons had a clear message:
“Stay involved. Attend meetings. Reach out. Critique us but also work with us. Constructive engagement is the lifeblood of a healthy institution.”
Echoing Rev. Holmes’s words, Gibbons closed with a note of hope:
“This is the hour for love and unity. We may not all agree on every decision, but we all want FAMU to thrive. That’s the common ground we must stand on.”
What’s Next?
- BOG Confirmation: Final decision expected today (June 18) .
- First 100 Days under Johnson: Gibbons anticipates a foundational period focused on listening, setting priorities, and defining benchmarks—such as improved academic programming, boosted student-faculty engagement, and reinforced infrastructure.
- Community Involvement: He urges Rattlers to stay engaged, attend meetings, submit ideas, and foster healthy dialogue.
In Summary:
FAMU stands at a crossroads. Trustee Deveron Gibbons acknowledges misgivings but underscores that the process was policy‑driven and transparent. With community voice louder than ever, today’s BOG decision and future engagement will determine whether FAMU can bridge division and reclaim its legacy of collective excellence.