BY IRIS B. HOLTON
Sentinel City Editor

On Monday, the Florida A & M University Board of Directors held a meeting at 9 a.m. During the meeting, they unanimously accepted a modified letter of resignation from President James Ammons. They also appointed Dr. Larry Robinson, who served as the Provost, as the Interim President of the University.

Mrs. Carolyn Collins, former Florida A & M University National Alumni Association (FAMU NAA) President said Board Chairman Solomon Badger, III, made the motion to accept the modified letter and it was second. The motion allowed Dr. Ammons’ resignation to take effect immediately, instead of the required 90-day notice.

“The decisions were made quickly because the university’s need for stability, transition, and they decided to make the decision to appoint Dr. Robinson today and not to leave this lingering. He has also served in that capacity before,” Mrs. Collins said.

She further stated that alumni members should make plans to attend the next meeting tentatively planned for August 22nd and 23rd. It will take place at FAMU in the Lawson Gym.

“Folks who want to make sure that there are no external influences should make plans to attend this meeting. We are encouraging all graduates to contact their local alumni presidents. In Tampa, contact Jackie Hearns, or attend the July meeting,” she said.

Dr. Robinson was serving as the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. His responsibilities included the academic operation of thirteen schools and colleges within the University. The school has more than 13,000 students and more than 700 faculty members.

Dr. Robinson had joined the University in 2003.

In May 2010, Dr. Robinson took a leave of absence from the University to serve as Assistant Secretary for Commerce for Conservation and Management at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. He supported and managed NOAA’s coastal and marine programs.

Dr. Robinson also supported NOAA’s participation in the BP oil spill crisis and President Barack Obama’s Ocean policy Task Force.

Dr. Robinson returned to FAMU in November 2011.