Here’s what to know about a stalled $237M donation to Florida A&M
It would have been the largest-ever private gift to a historically Black college or university
NEW YORK (AP) — In early May, Florida A&M University announced a stunning $237 million gift from a 30-year-old donor who cast himself as Texas’ “youngest African American industrial hemp producer.” The donation, which would have been the largest-ever private gift to a historically Black college or university, was announced at commencement to great fanfare.
Days later, everything began falling apart.
Following public backlash over its apparent failure to properly vet Gregory Gerami's donation, FAMU put the gift on pause. University trustees approved an outside investigation into the six-month process, an advancement officer resigned from her senior post and state officials are now overseeing the independent probe.
Gerami has said the questions over his donation are unnecessary “whack-a-mole” and maintains everything will ultimately work out.
