TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – The Florida A&M University President has announced an interim Chief of Staff as former Chief of Staff Carmen Cummings-Martins returns to a previous role.
Altony Lee III reportedly began his position as interim chief of staff on April 6, 2026. He was previously the associate vice chancellor of Public Affairs for the State University System of Florida (SUS) and the Florida Board of Governors.
FAMU President Marva Johnson said she is looking forward to his leadership.
“Dr. Tony Lee’s breadth of experience across Florida’s higher education landscape brings instant momentum and strategic insight to his new role as Florida A&M University’s interim chief of staff,” Johnson said in a press release.
Former Chief of Staff Cummings-Martin was appointed in March 2025 by interim FAMU President Timothy Beard.
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Her appointment came roughly two weeks after former chief of staff Tola Thompson departed from the university after less than six months in the role.
Cummings-Martin is now returning to the Division of University Advancement as the assistant vice president for Community Affairs.
“Carmen Cummings-Martin exemplifies the standard of excellence with caring that defines FAMU. Her leadership during this critical period of transition has been invaluable, and I am grateful for the foundation she has helped establish,” Johnson said in the press release.
Lee also served as the director of University Relations at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) and has a bachelor’s degree from FSU, a master’s degree from Florida International University (FIU), and a doctorate from the University of Miami.
“It is a privilege to serve at the number one public HBCU during this transformational time in FAMU history. Together with President Johnson, the Board of Trustees, and our administrative colleagues, I look forward to identifying best practices, advancing our shared strategic goals, and contributing to the continued excellence of this great institution”
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