FAMU Interim Athletic Director Michael Smith Wants to Keep the Momentum

Florida A&M University (FAMU) Wednesday named Michael Smith as interim athletic director following the resignation of Kortne Gosha. The University plans to conduct a swift national search to find a permanent replacement.

This will be Smith’s second time serving as the interim director of Athletics. The former Rattler football player served in the role from June 2013 to April 2014.

“We want to keep the momentum going,” Smith said of his interim role. He pointed to the upcoming graduation of 27 student-athletes as a reason to celebrate.

“It speaks to our mission,” Smith said. “We will continue to build and enhance those things that help us to be successful in maintaining an outstanding championship program.  More importantly, we want to make sure the department continues to model ‘Excellence with Caring’ on behalf of the University.”

In more than 25 years with the University, Smith has also served as the associate director of Athletics for Internal Operations, director of Business and Auxiliary Services, Title IX chairperson, an auditor with FAMU’s Inspector General’s Office, and the business manager for the Division of Student Affairs.

Smith graduated with a bachelor’s degree in accounting from FAMU in 1985. He is married to the former Loretta Footman, also a FAMU graduate. The Smiths have four adult children and several grandchildren.

At the time of his appointment, Smith was interim assistant vice president, Finance and Administration, Business and Auxiliary Services. Both President Larry Robinson, Ph.D., and Smith met with coaches and Athletic Department staff on Thursday, April 21 to announce the change. In brief introductory remarks to the gathering, Smith said he hopes to continue the excellent work being done on behalf of student athletes.