Presidential Search Updates

Donna Hedgepath

Dr. Donna Hedgepath

14th President of Wayland Baptist University

UPDATE Jan. 26, 2023

The nine-month search for a new leader has come to a successful conclusion with the appointment of Dr. Donna Hedgepath as the 14th president of Wayland Baptist University.

Following unanimous votes by the Presidential Search Committee and then Wayland’s Board of Trustees, the President-elect was introduced during a news conference held at Harral Memorial Auditorium. Mark Jones, chairman of Wayland’s Board of Trustees, introduced Dr. Hedgepath, who currently serves as Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Campbellsville University in Campbellsville, KY. A reception followed the announcement.

Jones expressed “heartfelt thanks” to the Presidential Search Committee led by Tyler Topper.

The university is appreciative to all who assisted in the search with recommendations and encouragement.

 

UPDATE December 13, 2023

On behalf of the WBU Presidential Search Committee, we are pleased to report that the search for the 14 th president of Wayland Baptist University is proceeding smoothly and on schedule. The Committee has been heartened by the response to the leadership opportunity at WBU, and we were able to consider a deep and talented pool of candidates. 

After a thorough review of an impressive pool of more than 50 applicants, as well as a round of semi-finalist interviews last month, the Search Committee has worked diligently to narrow down the field to a small group of exceptionally qualified finalists. Each candidate brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and vision that aligns with the values and goals of Wayland. The finalist interviews will be held next month, and we anticipate a recommendation to the Board of Trustees early in the new year.  

As we move forward, we request your continued prayers and support for the success of our presidential search. With your ongoing prayers and support, we are confident that we will select a presidential candidate who not only meets the high standards of our university, but also possesses the passion and vision necessary to propel us into a new era of excellence.

 

Tyler Topper, Chair

WBU Presidential Search Committee

 

 

 

UPDATE November 2, 2023

The application period for president has closed and the committee is now reviewing applications.

Please continue to be in fervent prayer for the process and for the next leader of our great institution.

 

 May 2023

Wayland’s current president, Dr. Bobby L. Hall has announced his retirement from the university after 40 plus years of service to the university, eight of which have been as president. He will officially retire June 30, 2024.

As part of a presidential transition plan, the Board of Trustees at Wayland Baptist University has engaged Academic Search to conduct a national search for the 14th president of Wayland Baptist University. Under the university’s bylaws, a new president will be elected by the affirmative vote of the Board of Trustees.

Throughout this search process, the search firm and the Wayland Board of Trustees will be working to identify an individual who deeply values our rich traditions, displays the leadership skills to lead us through the challenges of our time, and brings a vision that will further enhance the university’s position of offering a distinctively Christian education to its students. Gathering insight from our community about the opportunities and challenges facing the university, as well as important priorities for the university, will be critical to our success.

 

 


 

President Search Profile

Learn about Wayland Baptist University and what we are looking for in our next President

View