Today, Explained: Black Schools, Red States Vox Media Podcast Network – June 4, 2025
Hosts: Sean Rameswaram and Noel King
Guest: Dr. Mark Brown, President of Tuskegee University
Topic: The interplay between Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Republican-led states, focusing on political influences, funding challenges, and leadership appointments.
Introduction: The Tumultuous Landscape for Black Universities
In this episode of Today, Explained, hosts Sean Rameswaram and Noel King delve into the precarious position of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) situated in Republican-controlled states. The discussion is sparked by the controversial appointment of Marva Johnson as the new president of Florida A&M University (FAMU), one of the nation’s top HBCUs.
Political Interference in University Leadership
The episode opens with the alarming case of Marva Johnson's appointment at FAMU, raising significant concerns within the academic community.
Lynn Hatter, Director of Content at WFSU Public Media and FAMU alumna, voices strong opposition:
"Republicans are trying to put in the highest position of power someone who is solidly and objectively unqualified for it. Her name is Marva Johnson. FAMU deserves better."
(00:33)
Dr. Mark Brown, President of Tuskegee University, elaborates on Governor Ron DeSantis's influence:
"Governor Ron DeSantis exercising a lot more control and authority over who gets appointed to these presidencies. ... he has been able to exercise his preference for the leaders of these institutions."
(02:28)
Marva Johnson’s background as a successful public sector lobbyist with strong ties to the Florida GOP has ignited fears that her lack of experience in higher education administration could negatively impact FAMU’s esteemed programs.
Community Concerns and Qualifications Debate
The selection process of Johnson has been met with skepticism. Despite not being among the initial finalists, Johnson was added last minute to the candidate list.
Dr. Brown questions the board’s decision:
"She was a last minute addition to the finalist list. How that came to pass, nobody really knows. ... There are three overly qualified candidates. There's nothing she's bringing."
(04:25)
The community expresses worry that Johnson may dismantle critical programs, specifically FAMU’s pharmacy and nursing programs, which are pillars of the institution.
Impact on HBCUs in Republican States
Dr. Brown provides a broader perspective on how political climates in red states threaten the stability and growth of HBCUs:
"HBCUs are increasingly facing many of the same situations that other institutions are facing, which is the loss of federal funding, potential changes in how federal student aid is allocated, the loss of federal research grants."
(09:28)
He emphasizes that public HBCUs rely heavily on state and federal funding, making them more vulnerable to political shifts that prioritize budget cuts and reallocation of resources.
Federal Support and Future Outlook
Contrasting the opposition from state-level politics, President Donald Trump’s recent executive order aims to bolster HBCUs by increasing federal opportunities, including grants and contracts.
Dr. Brown discusses the executive order’s impact:
"President Donald Trump signed an executive order this week to help grow historically black colleges and universities. ... grow America's workforce in technology, healthcare and manufacturing."
(15:45)
However, Lynn Hatter voices caution regarding the sustainability of such support:
"Six percent of the alumni are givers. Unfortunately, the rest of the money comes from the state. We're going to need somebody who can not only raise money, somebody who's going to have to take into mind that our students are our number one customer and constituent."
(10:47)
Economic Contributions and Political Neutrality
Dr. Brown underscores the non-partisan value of HBCUs as economic engines:
"We are an economic engine that creates social and economic mobility for this country, and we take greater risk in doing so. And that should be recognized."
(24:44)
He advocates for focusing on the tangible outcomes of HBCUs, such as student internships, research, and graduation rates, rather than getting entangled in political agendas.
Challenges in Funding and Access to Education
The episode highlights the critical role of federal aid in maintaining enrollment and supporting students' educational journeys. Reductions in programs like Pell Grants and Grad PLUS loans have historically led to decreased enrollment at HBCUs.
Lynn Hatter explains the consequences of reduced federal aid:
"If you reduce access to those programs, you're going to reduce access to students' ability to go to college."
(21:25)
She further elaborates on the disparity in endowments between HBCUs and predominantly white institutions, emphasizing the urgent need for diversified funding sources to ensure their longevity.
Strategies for Navigating Political Pressures
To combat the challenges posed by political interference and funding cuts, HBCUs are adopting strategic approaches:
- Economic Framing: Emphasizing their role in economic development and workforce training to garner bipartisan support.
- Diversifying Funding: Seeking endowments and private donations to reduce reliance on state and federal funds.
- Highlighting Achievements: Showcasing successful programs and alumni to demonstrate value and impact beyond political narratives.
Dr. Brown advocates for this pragmatic approach:
"Everybody should want the Morehouse School of Medicine to be successful. ... HBCU is a part of the greatness. And I think we need to continue to make sure everybody understands that."
(24:21)
Conclusion: The Road Ahead for HBCUs
The episode concludes with a compelling call to action for stakeholders to recognize and support the indispensable role of HBCUs in America’s educational and economic landscape. The clash between political agendas and the mission of HBCUs underscores the necessity for continued advocacy, strategic planning, and community support to safeguard these institutions' futures.
Dr. Brown summarizes the essence of the struggle:
"This may have started with a black college in Florida, but best believe it will not end there. The fight that we take up in this moment is for FAMU, but it's not just for FAMU. It's for all of Black America."
(07:42)
Key Takeaways
- Political Influence: Republican-controlled states are increasingly influencing leadership appointments at HBCUs, raising concerns about academic autonomy and program integrity.
- Funding Vulnerability: Public HBCUs are highly dependent on state and federal funding, making them susceptible to budget cuts and policy changes.
- Strategic Responses: HBCUs are adopting economic framing, diversifying funding sources, and highlighting their contributions to navigate political and financial challenges.
- Community Advocacy: Strong alumni and stakeholder advocacy are crucial in resisting politically motivated appointments and safeguarding the institutions' missions.
This episode of Today, Explained sheds light on the intricate challenges faced by HBCUs in red states, emphasizing the need for collective action to preserve these vital educational institutions.