Amplify Black voices in FSU presidential search

As the Florida State University National Black Alumni, Inc. closely monitors the search for the next president of our beloved alma mater, we offer our input, participation and unyielding support as the process unfolds. We appreciate the potential candidates who have reached out to discuss and listen to our interests related to Florida State University. 

The FSU Black Alumni underscores the vital need to select a candidate who understands our organization’s mission and goals and our constituents’ needs and who best exemplifies the characteristics necessary to lead FSU to greater heights. 

While our nation reckons with issues of equity and justice, FSU must remain attuned to the needs of Black and brown students, faculty, staff, and alumni. FSU and its eventual new president should embrace the unique perspectives of the groups mentioned above as well as Black-owned businesses.

At a time such as this, FSU’s efforts to focus on multiculturalism and minority diversity and address racism must not become stagnant. We are a preeminent and Top 20-ranked public institution, and we know the university can continue to advance in a unified way. 

We strongly feel the following items are critical elements in selecting a president for FSU and should be included in the new president’s strategic plan:

• Restore recruitment efforts to attract and retain top Black students.
• Implement recruitment and retention efforts focused on top Black faculty, staff and administrators.
• Provide an ongoing seat at the table for the FSU Black Alumni on essential issues, programs, and activities, and continue to advance inclusion on policy and position “rollouts.”
• Expand and provide active inclusion on contract awards and construction projects.
• Continue bridging the gap with Black alumni to create and maintain long-term, meaningful relationships with FSU.
• Make the Anti-Racism, Equity and Inclusion Task Force a permanent committee. 

As Black alumni, we are proud of the legacy that integration brought to FSU more than a half-century ago. However, we clearly understand and are constantly reminded that we have a long way to go on our journey to diversity, inclusiveness and civility. We have enjoyed the partnership and openness we’ve experienced with President John Thrasher over the last seven years and look forward to it continuing under the next administration. 

We advocate and will continuously work with administrators and officials to ensure that FSU lives up to its mission “to strive to instill the strength, skill and character essential for lifelong learning, personal responsibility and sustained achievement within a community that fosters free inquiry and embraces diversity.”

The FSU National Black Alumni provides a framework for Black alumni and supporters to meet for alumni, university, academic, cultural, service, and other related purposes. The FSU National Black Alumni also promotes and supports academic achievement and provides financial and in-kind support for programs and scholarships for current and future minority students of African descent.

Our love for Florida State University is undeniable. The Florida State University National Black Alumni, Inc. will always be part of its history and must always be a vital part of its future.