Bill Proctor Your Turn
(Source Tallahassee Democrats):
History will honor Larry Robinson as a successful leader of Florida A&M University. The positive ways he lifted FAMU in academics and athletics meant so much to the citizens of District 1 and those beyond. We proudly celebrate being the nation’s No. 1 public ranked historically black college and university under President Robinson’s leadership for five consecutive years. Getting to be No. 1 is something. Staying there is something too. Robinson kept FAMU No. 1.
Some presidents are known for their effusive electric personality and eloquent public charm. Robinson, however, was always cool, calm, and collected, a measured and calculated speaker. His unique qualities earned him the respect and appreciation of those who knew him.
As he vacates the post of president, under Robinson’s leadership, FAMU is currently postured as our nation’s No. 91 ranked public institution.
Florida State University and the University of Florida are also ranked in the upper echelons of the nation’s top 100 public universities. However, consider the average household income of students enrolled at the University of Florida comfortably exceeds $100,000. The average annual household income of FAMU students falls well under $40,000, with 80% of its students qualifying for educational financial assistance. Notwithstanding the socioeconomics of his students, Robinson has masterfully powered FAMU into the ranks of our nation’s elite public institutions of higher learning.
Robinson exits the role of president after his university has achieved a phenomenal, rare sports accomplishment. FAMU reigns as the national champion for both football and golf among HBCUs. Again, this success has made citizens in District 1 and beyond quite proud.
More recently, the Board of Governors. asked state universities to raise their admission standards. Under Robinson’s leadership, FAMU met state demands for higher admission standards. It’s not uncommon to hear alumni suggest “I’m not sure I would be accepted into FAMU today.” Yet, due to FAMU’s steady institutional performance, record numbers of students have applied for 2024 fall admission. The applicant pool is large and impressive.
Thanks to President Robinson. The next FAMU president, thanks to President Robinson, will not have to build a new gymnasium or football stadium. A new state-of-the-art residence hall has been built and another under construction. Additional residence halls will be forthcoming soon. A new president will not need to build a student service building because Robinson has already completed that task. That huge rattler snake statue is Robinson’s forever signature statement. A new dining facility and bookstore have been opened and a new state-of-the-art amphitheater is completed on campus.
Robinson has done much.
Serving as interim president three times and as president for nearly seven years, the Robinson years and era has generated accomplishments that are appreciated and respected. Our community is grateful for President Robinsons’ work, and bids continued success to him and his family.
Well done and thank you, Dr. Larry Robinson. Well done.
Bill Proctor is a Leon County commissioner representing District 1. He has been an instructor at Florida A&M University since 1986.
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