An uneasy truce as FAMU Board of Trustees mulls concerns about president's leadership style

Elmira Mangum, Ph.D.
President
Florida A&M University

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Florida A&M University is on the upswing in many ways: Audits are clean, accreditation appears on solid footing, the marching band has returned without incident after a hazing scandal, and freshmen attending orientation are proudly wearing orange “Class of 2019” T-shirts.

Most incoming students, though, probably are oblivious to problems inside Lee Hall, an iconic building that houses the offices of President Elmira Mangum and university administrators.

Mangum has been on the job a little over a year, but questionable decision-making and a lack of political finesse have strained her relationship with some faculty, FAMU supporters and, most important, the FAMU Board of Trustees. The 13 trustees are preparing Mangum’s first evaluation and, if things don’t improve to their satisfaction, they have the authority to fire her.

Mangum is expected to receive low marks regarding her leadership style, communication and engagement with stakeholder groups when trustees meet July 21.

Among her perceived missteps
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