Samford University Announces 19th President

The Samford University Board of Trustees today elected Beck A. Taylor as its 19th president, effective July 1, 2021.

We are pleased to announce Samford’s 19th president

Beck A. Taylor

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Biography

Beck Taylor comes to Samford after serving as president of Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington, since 2010. Prior to this appointment, Taylor served as dean of Samford’s Brock School of Business, and associate dean for Baylor University’s Hankamer School of Business. His tenure at Whitworth has been highlighted by a renewed commitment to community involvement, efforts to enhance academic programs and an emphasis on overall institutional effectiveness.

Full Biography

What People Are Saying

“I wish to offer my enthusiastic endorsement of Beck A. Taylor as the 19th president of Samford University.

The members of the search committee have made a wise and inspired decision. Every aspect of his personal and professional development augers well for a vibrant and transformational presidency at Samford. I have long believed that Samford’s best days always lie ahead. With the arrival of Beck and Julie Taylor on campus, that belief is stronger than ever.”

—Andrew Westmoreland, Ed.D., president of Samford University

“In addition to his impressive qualifications, Beck Taylor is one of the most kindhearted men I know.

He is a man of remarkable integrity and compassion and who is deeply committed to both his Christian faith and his family. In the same way Beck has led Whitworth with wisdom and tact, he will lead Samford with enthusiasm, clear direction and divine guidance.”

—Linda A. Livingston, Ph.D., president of Baylor University

“Dr. Taylor has always stood out as an exceptional leader. He helps those around him to flourish.

He encourages his peers and cheers them on. He delights when they have success. And they delight in his. Not only is Dr. Taylor a brilliant person who cares deeply for people, he is a successful and caring leader with the ability to prioritize the infinite requests and opportunities that any day may hold and he does so with humility and grace.”

—Shirley V. Hoogstra, J.D., president of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities

About the Search

The Samford Presidential Search Committee received more than 80 nominations and applications in its search for the university’s 19th president. The search lasted six months, ending with a Board of Trustees vote and formal announcement on March 10, 2021.

Aug. 28, 2020: Bill Stevens, chair of Samford’s Board of Trustees, announced the formation of the Samford Presidential Search Committee.
Sept. 17, 2020: The search committee held its first meeting.
Oct. 3, 2020: The search committee reviewed the results of the Presidential Assessment Survey, which gathered input from nearly 2,000 faculty, staff, students and alumni.
Nov. 7, 2020: The search committee set a deadline for nominations and applications of Dec. 1.
Jan. 27, 2021: The search committee provided an update to the Samford community.
March 9, 2021: A series of constituent reference panels was convened to interview the final candidate.
March 10, 2021: Samford’s Board of Trustees convened a special meeting to vote on the appointment of Beck A. Taylor as the 19th president of Samford University.
Looking Forward: Taylor will take office on July 1, 2021, with his official inauguration ceremonies to follow in the fall.

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