TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida A&M University’s president reached an agreement with school officials to immediately resign from his post today, after facing months of criticism in the wake of the hazing death of a marching band member.

Last week, James Ammons had submitted a resignation letter stating his resignation would not take effect until Oct. 11. However, he waived a provision allowing him to give 90 days notice to the FAMU board in exchange for getting paid bonuses.

The school’s board was holding an emergency meeting today to discuss Ammons’ resignation and the search for his replacement. Ammons had vowed a month ago to remain at his job, despite a no-confidence vote from trustees in June.

During today’s conference call with the board, Ammons agreed to step down immediately but did not comment further about his decision.

The fallout began with the hazing death of drum major Robert Champion on Nov. 19. Champion’s death put a spotlight on the hazing culture at the university, specifically within the famed Marching 100 band.

Eleven FAMU band members face felony hazing charges, while two others face misdemeanor counts for alleged roles in Champion’s hazing. They have pleaded not guilty.

By The Associated Press