Florida A&M University President Resigns Amid Controversy Over Suspicious Donation

Larry Robinson, the president of Florida A&M University, has resigned amidst controversy surrounding a suspicious multi-million dollar donation from a questionable donor. The donation, which was revealed at a graduation ceremony in May, raised eyebrows due to the lack of proper vetting.

Robinson, who has been in the role for seven years, admitted to not executing due diligence in accepting the $237 million donation from donor Gregory Gerami. The oversized check would have been the largest private donation to a historically Black university if valid.

In a statement to the university’s trustees, Robinson expressed regret for not heeding warning signs and emphasized that there was no personal gain involved. He believed the donation had the potential to transform the university and benefit its students and athletic programs.

The school’s trustees are set to determine Robinson’s departure date and initiate the search for a new president at a meeting on July 23. Robinson, who plans to return to his role as a professor after a year-long sabbatical, described his time as president as a privilege and emphasized the transformative power of education.

Before his presidency, Robinson held various leadership roles within the university. His resignation marks the end of a tenure marked by both accomplishments and controversy, leaving the university to navigate a transition period as it seeks new leadership.