Statement from FAMU BOT Chair Kristin Harper
Chair Kristin Harper
FAMU Board of Trustees
May 10, 2024
Last Saturday, May 4, 2024, a gift of $237 million was announced at the university’s commencement. In addition to the gift announcement, the donor was afforded the opportunity to address the commencement audience. Serious concerns have been raised regarding the validity of the gift, the adequacy of the due diligence processes and whether the Foundation Board and Board of Trustees have been provided ample oversight opportunity. I regrettably share these concerns.
As a result, I have taken the following actions:
· The administration was directed to conduct briefings with each Trustee.
· A special Board of Trustees meeting will be convened on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at 3 p.m. Several Trustees have expressed a shared interest in thoroughly and transparently addressing these issues.
We are committed to seeking truth and to recommending any corrective actions necessary to improve the operations and controls of our university. A formal meeting is required for the Trustees to continue this important work.
We will get to the bottom of this. I ask for patience and grace as we work diligently to gather information, take action, and build a stronger Florida A&M University. I look forward to updating the Rattler community as we learn more.
Thank you
