Florida Memorial University (FMU), South Florida’s only Historically Black College and University (HBCU), is facing internal turmoil after a group of Board of Trustees members released a public statement denouncing the appointment of William McCormick, Jr. as the school’s 15th president.
In a sharply worded letter issued on August 21, 2025, eight board members—including Board Chair Dr. Brandon K. Dumas—called McCormick’s appointment “illegal,” claiming that it was pushed through without proper notification, discussion, or approval from the full board. They allege that a faction of the board conducted a vote without adhering to university bylaws and accused them of engaging in a “well-thought-out coup” to secure McCormick’s presidency.
“Let us be absolutely clear: this presidency was obtained illegally,” the statement reads. “The meeting that facilitated this alleged vote, which none of us attended, was never properly noticed to the Board… and the action taken is in direct violation of our bylaws.”
The dissenting board members claim McCormick, who previously served as board chair, strategically stepped down to take on the role of interim president under the guise of stability. Since then, they say he and his allies have applied pressure to make the appointment permanent—pressure that culminated in the rogue vote.
According to CBS Miami, while McCormick’s appointment was announced publicly by supporters, university officials have yet to release official documentation confirming his role as president. CBS also noted that FMU’s media contact confirmed McCormick’s selection, but did not comment on the board’s accusations.
This explosive rift among leadership raises significant concerns about the university’s governance, especially as FMU works to stabilize after financial difficulties and accreditation issues in recent years. With more than 143 years of legacy, FMU holds deep historical and cultural significance—not just for Miami Gardens, but for the entire Black community in South Florida.
Dr. Dumas and the board members backing him—many of whom are proud FMU alumni—made it clear they’re not going down without a fight.
“The very soul of this beloved institution is being dragged through the mud by those who disregard its laws and traditions,” the statement reads. “We will not sit quietly while this university is destabilized by unlawful and reckless actions.”
Among the other signatories were Dr. Mona Lisa Pinkney, Vice Chair; Deneshea Phelps Owens, Treasurer; Brittany McMillon, Secretary and National Alumni Association President; Councilman Reggie Leon; Rev. Bartholomew Banks; Rev. Dr. Marcus Davidson; and Charles George, Chairman Emeritus.
They’re demanding a reversal of the appointment and a return to lawful governance. Meanwhile, McCormick and his supporters have not publicly responded to the accusations.
Hy-Lo News will continue to follow this developing story, especially as it impacts current students, faculty, and the broader South Florida community that FMU serves.
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