FAMU Expected to be on Academic Probation

Florida A&M University, which has been in the news the past year for a hazing incident that left a member of the famed Marching 100 Band dead, has been placed on probation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The university announced Tuesday that the Tallahassee school will retain its accreditation but must serve a year on probation.

It is important to emphasize that FAMU remains an accredited institution, even while under the probation sanction from SACSCOC, FAMU Interim President Larry Robinson stated in a release.

We are committed to addressing the areas of concern, and ensuring that FAMU is compliant with all SACSCOC accreditation standards. Our students will continue to receive a first-class education from FAMU.

While the areas of concern cited by the association were academic policies, student rights, control of finances, and institutional environment, the Nov. 19, 2011 hazing death of Robert Champion played a role in the decision.

The university noted they expect a formal letter from the association in the next week, with a full report in January, outlining the actual sanctions.