Marva Johnson, J.D., confirmed by the Board of Governors as Florida A&M University’s 13th President
Boca Raton, Fla. – The Florida Board of Governors (BOG) voted unanimously today to confirm Marva Johnson, J.D., as the next president of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU).
Johnson was selected as the institution’s thirteenth president by the FAMU Board of Trustees (BOT) on May 16. Her selection followed a thorough presidential search, which narrowed the field to four highly qualified finalists.
“It is a profound honor to be selected as the 13th president of Florida A&M University—a historic institution with a rich legacy shaped by giants,” said Johnson. “As president, I recognize the legacy I carry and remain committed to protecting and extending that legacy and FAMU’s mission, while fighting to ensure that we are positioned for success in the evolving higher education landscape. I am ready to bring a bold, business-minded, results-driven approach to advancing student success, financial sustainability, and long-term institutional growth.”
Marva Johnson, J.D., FAMU's 13th president, is welcomed by several sitting state university
system presidents during the BOG meeting on Wednesday, June 18. (Photo by Jeff Walker/FAMU)
Chancellor of the State University System of Florida, Raymond Rodrigues, acknowledged that Johnson’s passion for public service and education will be an asset in her new role.
“Congratulations to Marva Johnson on her confirmation as the 13th president of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. President Johnson brings a strong vision for student success and a commitment to elevating FAMU’s national profile. I am confident she will lead the university to greater heights,” said Rodrigues.
Johnson has received many accolades, including Cablefax: The Magazine’s “MSO Executive to Watch” and “Top Women in Tech.”
FAMU President-elect Marva Johnson, J.D., and FAMU Alum Brian Lamb, who also chairs
the Florida BOG, pause for a photo after her confirmation at the BOG meeting in Boca
Raton, Florida. (Photo by Jeff Walker/FAMU)
Chair of the Florida Board of Governors, Brian Lamb, noted Johnson’s corporate connections, coupled with her vision for student success, will enhance the FAMU career pipeline to new levels.
“Marva Johnson’s confirmation as the next president of FAMU marks a new chapter in the university’s legacy. Her visionary leadership, deep commitment to improving outcomes for students, and passion for innovation will be the catalyst for FAMU to build on the rich tradition and have a greater impact on the local community, the state, and the nation,” said Lamb.
Johnson was appointed to the Florida State Board of Education in 2014, was elected chair in 2015, and served in that capacity for four years. During her tenure, she championed policies aimed at improving educational outcomes for all students. She played a vital role in implementing performance-based funding measures to encourage state colleges to improve student success metrics, including graduation rates. Johnson also worked to enhance accountability across the state’s colleges, always with a focus on closing achievement gaps and ensuring that all students had access to high-quality, low-cost education options.
Johnson’s first day as University president will be Friday, August 1.
Media Contact:
Alonda Thomas, Ph.D.
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
Alonda.Thomas@famu.edu
