The executive committee of Samford University’s Board of Trustees approved new faculty, the establishment of a new scholarship and a new award at their meeting on October 29.

Three new faculty members were approved for Howard College of Arts and Sciences, Orlean Beeson School of Education and the School of Public Health.

The McWhorter School of Pharmacy Drug Information Endowed Scholarship Fund was approved. The scholarship will benefit Samford pharmacy students in their second, third or fourth years of study who have demonstrated strong critical thinking, drug information and problem solving skills. Establishment of the Samford Athletics John C. Pittman Lifetime Achievement Award was also approved. Recipients will have demonstrated an uncommon commitment to excellence, a passion for the interests of Samford Athletics and its student-athletes and, like John C. Pittman, possessed high character. The award will be given to individuals who have made profound and lasting contributions over many years to Samford Athletics.  

A resolution authorizing the financing of capital improvements and refunding of certain outstanding financial obligations was approved. The proposed financing will take advantage of historically low interest rates.

Trustees received reports on the university budget, campus master plan, student recruitment, advancement and marketing. It was noted that the Forever Samford campaign has received cash, property or pledges exceeding $174 million, representing more than 58% of the $300 million goal. The university’s endowment was valued at more than $295 million as of August 31, 2019.