Florida A&M University was placed on a one-year probation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. While the full details of the accrediting agency’s reasons for placing the university on probation have not been released, the association noted concerns with finances, student safety, operational integrity, and leadership. The university will have one year to address these problems. At the end of this period, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools will determine what course of action, if any, is necessary.
The association’s concerns over the school’s financial outlook and student safety may be related to the November 2011 death of drum major Robert Champion, who died after a hazing incident. Litigation is pending in the case.
In a statement to reporters, interim president Larry Robinson stated that there were no problems with any of the university’s academic programs and that his staff would work to address any problems brought forth by the accrediting agency.
