By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.
It’s not every day that you can find a presidential candidate who fits the mold almost perfectly, especially in this climate where historical Black colleges and universities are losing leadership at alarming rates. According to an email from Terrell Strayhorn, director of Virginia Union University’s Center for the Study of HBCUs(July 26, 2023), Since 2022, more than 20 HBCU presidencies have become available because of retirements, resignations or involuntary resignations. That’s resulted in nearly one-quarter of HBCU colleges being led by interim, acting or departing presidents.
As Florida Memorial University (FMU) prepares to initiate the search for a permanent president, many are beginning to wonder if the ideal candidate is already on campus. William McCormick, FMU’s interim president, brings more than 34 years of organizational leadership, finance, sales, and marketing experience from his successful entrepreneurial ventures in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. With his extensive background, McCormick could be the visionary leader FMU needs to propel the institution forward.
It can be extremely difficult leading an HBCU which requires a unique set of skills that everyone doesn’t have. However some of the ‘must have’ skills are the absolute love for what you are doing, knowledge, fundraising experience and proven success in management, fiscal and business acumen, communication skills, the ability to be team player, understanding the community to build them into the plan, I’m sure there are more but this is a great foundation to begin with and Bill is showing that he possess the skills needed to move the University forward.
McCormick’s track record as a self-made entrepreneur is impressive. He founded three successful companies with his latest being Americlaims Billing, Inc., after decades of experience, and transformed multiple companies in the healthcare sector into essential service providers. His expertise in revenue cycle management, claim adjudication efficiency, and his strategic approach to business growth are well-established. More importantly, McCormick’s history of turning around companies aligns with FMU’s current mission to enhance its visibility and reputation within the community.
Since June 24, 2024, stepping into the role of interim president, McCormick has implemented essential spending and cost-saving measures, focused on streamlining operations, and introduced strategies to increase the university’s financial stability, also he has created a vibrant culture on campus with faculty and staff, plus the students are excited and they believe in him. It obvious when he engages the students that there is a connection there.
His leadership has even now begun to shape FMU’s future, spearheading a family like atmosphere, bringing much-needed focus on affordability, internal capability, and vendor negotiations, all of which reflect his meticulous approach to fiscal responsibility.
Additionally, McCormick’s long-standing commitment to FMU stretches beyond his role as interim president. As a board of trustee member and former chairman of the FMU Board of Trustees, he gained an in-depth understanding of the university’s operations and needs. His connection to FMU, as both an alumnus and an experienced leader, gives him a unique perspective on what it will take to ensure long-term success for the institution.
With his clear vision, emphasis on communication, and respect for FMU’s mission, McCormick has shown that he is more than capable of leading the university. His track record suggests he can elevate FMU’s status, ensuring it is no longer seen as a hidden gem, but rather a beacon of educational excellence in the community.
While the search for a new president continues, the question remains: does FMU already have their next president in William McCormick? Time will tell, but his leadership thus far makes a compelling case for consideration.
In the words of Mr. McCormick, “Its our time and FMU is where students choose missions not majors!
