Governor DeSantis Appoints Four New Members to Florida A&M University Board of Trustees

By Rachel James-Terry, FAMU News

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed four new members to the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Board of Trustees, strengthening the University’s governing body with leaders whose experience spans business, law, healthcare, public service, and higher education. The new appointees are Victor Young, Prerak “Pre” Shah, Roderick Harris, and Kenneth Jones. Their terms begin in January 2026 and run through January 2031.

“It is an honor to welcome these distinguished leaders to the FAMU Board of Trustees,” said President Marva B. Johnson, J.D. “Their outstanding backgrounds in law, business and healthcare will bring added value to our existing board acumen as we work together to lead FAMU forward throughout the coming years.”

Young and Shah, appointed on Dec. 12, 2025, fill seats vacated by former Board of Trustee members Kristin Harper and Craig Reed following the conclusion of their respective terms. Harris and Jones were appointed to succeed Belvin Perry Jr. and Jocelyn Dopson-Rodriguez, whose terms on the Board have also expired.

Victor Young. Term: January 7, 2026 – January 6, 2031

Victor Young is the managing partner of Morgan Auto Group (MAG), the largest automotive dealer group in Florida and the ninth largest in the nation, with annual revenues exceeding $6 billion. In addition to his automotive leadership, Young is a partner at Digital Caviar, a film production company responsible for theatrical and streaming releases such as Lady of the Manor, Bernie the Dolphin, and Crazy Lake. His entrepreneurial reach spans technology, entertainment, and innovation, reflecting a career grounded in growth and creativity.

Prerak “Pre” Shah, J.D. Term: January 7, 2026 – January 6, 2031

Prerak “Pre” Shah is a partner in the Houston office of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, where he advises corporations and executives facing complex state, federal, and congressional investigations. His legal practice also includes representing clients in high-stakes civil litigation, particularly at the intersection of law, public policy, and politics. Shah’s work reflects deep experience navigating some of the most consequential legal and regulatory matters in the country.

Roderick Harris, MSW, CPM. Term: January 9, 2026 – January 6, 2031

Roderick Harris brings more than two decades of experience in human services across public and private sectors. He currently serves as director of the Office of System Innovation within the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, where he leads efforts to identify and present key performance measures across departmental program areas. His work focuses on data-informed decision-making and system-level improvements that enhance outcomes for youth and families.

Kenneth Jones, MBA, MHA. Term: January 9, 2026 – January 6, 2031

Kenneth Jones is chief executive officer of HCA Florida Northwest Hospital in Margate, Florida, and a member of the HCA Healthcare Hope Fund Board. He brings nearly 20 years of leadership experience in hospital administration and clinical operations, having served as president and chief executive officer at multiple healthcare institutions across the Midwest and Florida.