We, the undersigned students, of Albany State University, express our strong opposition to the recent appointment of the new interim president. This decision was made without sufficient consultation with the broader school community and raises serious concerns about the future direction and leadership of our institution.

Our school has faced numerous challenges that require a leader with a proven track record of effective change and innovation. After conducting research on the newly appointed interim president, we have found troubling evidence of inadequate leadership during his previous tenure at Bethune-Cookman University (BCU), where significant opportunities for improvement were missed. This raises serious doubts about his ability to lead our school toward a brighter and more prosperous future.

Lack of Integrity:

Dr. Drake has made inappropriate comments to female faculty and staff members.
He discloses confidential information.
He directs divisions not to cooperate and communicate with one another, creating distrust and dissension on campus.
Dr. Drake creates his own truths, which are contrary to campus realities.
Questionable Spending:

Dr. Drake spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on the College of Business when other colleges, schools, and residence halls needed more critical attention.
He has awarded presidential scholarships to African students, one of whom is his goddaughter.
Personal Agenda Does Not Align with Institutional Priorities:

Dr. Drake is commonly referred to as “Dr. I, Me, My.”
He has disregarded the rich traditions of Bethune-Cookman University, including not holding any assemblies during his tenure.
Lack of Attention to Campus Safety:

Dr. Drake has disregarded students’ pleas regarding campus safety and security concerning guns, drugs, theft, and addressing the open campus.
Lack of Student Engagement:

Dr. Drake held assemblies in response to protests weeks after they occurred, which were dismally attended by students but had more staff attendees.
Lack of Respect for Faculty and Staff:

Dr. Drake has publicly humiliated staff members.
Lack of Responsiveness During Critical Times:

The university experienced two back-to-back hurricanes, during which Dr. Drake was not in Daytona Beach. Other staff members stayed with students in hotels throughout the week.
He refused to meet with students during the January protest and was not in town, nor did he respond timely when a double shooting involving two students occurred.
Lack of Respect for the Board of Trustees:

Dr. Drake has publicly stated that he doesn’t have to listen to them because “He is a grown-ass man” and “I don’t give a f*** about these people.”

Dr. Drake was unfit and unwanted at Bethune-Cookman University. What makes him qualified for Albany State University? How will he better our school if he didn’t prove to BCU students that he was a good fit? Why would we want someone who isn’t there for their students in a time of need?

We believe that our school deserves a leader who is not only capable but also genuinely committed to addressing our unique challenges and advancing our mission. We call on the administration to:

Reconsider the appointment of the new interim president.
Engage in a transparent and inclusive search process for a new leader, involving input from students, faculty, and staff.
Prioritize candidates with a demonstrated history of successful leadership and the ability to bring about meaningful improvements in educational environments.
By signing this petition, we stand together in advocating for a leadership choice that will truly benefit the future of Albany State University and its community.

Thank you for your attention and consideration.

Sincerely,
A concern student of Albany State University