Evelyn DeJesus Executive Vice President | American Federation of Teachers
On May 21, 2025, AFT Secretary-Treasurer Fedrick Ingram released a statement regarding Marva Johnson's appointment as the new president of Florida A&M University (FAMU). Ingram criticized the decision, describing it as "an insult to the presidential selection process and those working hard in the education profession." He further characterized it as "a blatant power move straight from the Project 2025 playbook."
Ingram linked Johnson's appointment to political strategies employed by figures like Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. He stated that DeSantis has previously installed "inexperienced, unqualified people" in leadership roles at institutions such as Florida International University and suggested a similar approach might be taken at the University of West Florida.
The statement also compared Johnson's lack of relevant experience to that of U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon, appointed under Trump. Ingram accused McMahon of mismanaging the Department of Education by cutting funding and services.
Ingram expressed concerns over FAMU’s commitment to diversity and inclusion being threatened under Johnson's leadership due to her ties with DeSantis. He equated this situation with broader attacks on higher education institutions across America.
The AFT is actively opposing these developments through various channels including legal actions, commerce, Congress, and public opinion. Ingram concluded by stating they would monitor whether Johnson aligns with DeSantis' agenda or upholds FAMU’s legacy for its community.
Randi Weingarten, Fedrick C. Ingram, and Evelyn DeJesus lead this initiative within the American Federation of Teachers (AFL-CIO).
Photographs, illustrations, and text from this release require permission from the AFT for use.
Alerts Sign-up