Trustees spurn Torey, elect McWilliams vice-chairman

The FAMU Board of Trustees opted against bringing additional public embarrassment to the university by electing Spurgeon McWilliams as the new vice-chairman rather than Torey Alston.

McWilliams is an obstetrician and gynecologist in Tallahassee. He earned his undergraduate degree from FAMU and his medical degree from Meharry Medical College. Former Gov. Charlie Crist appointed McWilliams to the board in 2006.

Rattler Nation learned more than a month ago that Torey's name was circulating as a possible replacement for ex-Vice-Chairman Richard Dent, who resigned in February. But Torey's baggage on hazing-related issues was too much for a board that is working to stop students from participating in pledging processes.