ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Dr. Nashid Madyun, executive director of Florida Humanities in St. Pete, was tapped by Senate President Kathleen Passidomo on Jan. 31 after Terri Lipsey Scott of the Woodson Museum resigned over a potential conflict of interest.
According to the Florida Department of State, the nine-member task force is charged with making recommendations for the museum around planning, construction, operation and administration.
Madyun has more than 25 years of experience with museums across the country and says he believes he would lend a good eye to what it takes to erect and operate a successful museum.
His appointment to the task force comes as Florida battles culture wars and wrestles with how to teach Black history in classrooms.
RELATED: Woodson director resigns from state’s Black history museum task force
Last year, the state rejected an AP African American studies course, saying in a letter to the College Board, “As presented, the content of this course is inexplicably contrary to Florida law and significantly lacks educational value.”
RELATED: 'Lacks educational value:' Florida blocks AP African American Studies course
There has also been a fervent push against diversity initiatives, with the state banning diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, initiatives in public colleges. 10 Investigates has also uncovered how the state's African American History Task Force has been quietly shrinking for years.
RELATED: Florida's African American History Task Force has been quietly shrinking for years
RELATED: Florida board bans use of state, federal dollars for DEI programs at state universities
However, Madyun says it is not his role to get involved in the politics of the museum.
“My role is not to influence the content,” he told 10 investigates. “My role is to look at how a museum can be sustained and how it can be successful. My eyes look at that first.”
Emerald Morrow is an investigative reporter with 10 Tampa Bay. Like her on Facebook and follow her on X. You can also email her at emorrow@10tampabay.com.
