FAMU Approves Housing Allowance for President During Renovations

University to pay $25,000 in relocation expenses and $5,000 monthly housing allowance for President Marva Johnson

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Florida A&M University's Board of Trustees has approved an amendment to President Marva Johnson's contract that will provide her with $25,000 in relocation expenses and a $5,000 monthly housing allowance while the president's house on campus undergoes renovations. Johnson has been staying off campus since starting her role in August 2025, as the house is not currently available for occupancy.

Why it matters

The housing allowance and relocation expenses for the FAMU president highlight the challenges universities can face in providing suitable on-campus housing for their top administrators, especially when renovations are required. This deal raises questions about the appropriate use of university funds and the transparency around presidential housing arrangements.

The details

The FAMU Board of Trustees unanimously approved the amendment to Johnson's contract, which includes the $25,000 one-time relocation payment and the $5,000 monthly housing allowance starting March 1 until the president's house is ready for occupancy. The president's house has not been lived in by a FAMU president for 8 years, and extensive renovations are currently underway as part of the university's campus beautification plan.

  • Johnson started as FAMU president on August 1, 2025.
  • The FAMU Board of Trustees approved the housing allowance amendment on February 12, 2026.
  • The $25,000 relocation payment will be made to Johnson within the next 30 days.
  • The $5,000 monthly housing allowance will begin on March 1, 2026.

The players

Marva Johnson

The current president of Florida A&M University, who will receive a housing allowance and relocation expenses while the president's house on campus undergoes renovations.

FAMU Board of Trustees

The governing body of Florida A&M University that unanimously approved the amendment to President Johnson's contract providing the housing allowance and relocation expenses.

Avery McKnight

The Chief Legal Officer of Florida A&M University, who presented the proposed amendment to the Board of Trustees.

Timothy Beard

The interim president of Florida A&M University from August 2024 to August 2025, who was the last person to live in the president's house on campus.

Larry Robinson

The former president of Florida A&M University who lived off campus during his tenure.

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What’s next

The university will need to evaluate the condition of the president's house and determine the full scope and cost of the renovations before President Johnson can move in.

The takeaway

This housing allowance for the FAMU president highlights the challenges universities can face in providing suitable on-campus housing for their top administrators, especially when extensive renovations are required. It raises questions about the appropriate use of university funds and the transparency around presidential housing arrangements.