The president of Florida’s only public historically Black university resigns after donation debacle

By Kate Payne The Associated Press/Report for AmericaTALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — The president of Florida’s only public historically Black university is resigning amid backlash over the school’s apparent failure to properly vet a multi-million dollar donation from a dubious donor.This image made from a video provided by WCTV shows Gregory Gerami, a 30-year-old who calls himself Texas’ “youngest African American industrial hemp producer,” third from left, and Florida A&M University president Larry Robinson, posing with a ceremonial check during a commencement ceremony May 4, 2024 in Tallahassee, Fla. Robinson announced July 12, he’s resigning amid backlash over the university’s apparent failure to properly vet the donation. (WCTV via AP, File)Larry Robinson submitted his resignation last week and will leave Florida A&M University at a time when state officials are scrutinizing programs at the school that they say are underperforming and as increasing political influence reshapes the state’s higher education landscape.During a graduation ceremony in May, Robinson stood on stage in his academic regalia holding a jumbo check for $237 million, a gift that would have been the single largest private donation to a historically Black college or university – if it ever materialized.Robinson has led the 137-year-old HBCU for seven...