With much pomp and pageantry, Samford University inaugurated Andrew Westmoreland as its 18th president Nov. 2.
Upon his pledge to “faithfully and sensitively administer the affairs of Samford University in accordance with the Word of God,” Westmoreland was sworn into office by William J. Stevens, chairman of Samford’s board of trustees, before a crowd of more than 1,500 in Samford’s Wright Center.
“[T]his morning, a point near the end of our 165th year of service … I affirm that I will do my best, as God gives me light and as our friends lend their support, to faithfully administer the affairs of Samford University with a commitment to that excellence that honors God,” said Westmoreland, who before coming to Samford June 1 had served as president of Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark., since 1998.
Before the start of the investiture service, Westmoreland — accompanied by his wife, Jeanna, and daughter, Riley — was led into the Wright Center by a procession of more than 450 people in academic regalia that made its way across campus from Reid Chapel. Flag bearers flanked Centennial Walk in front of the library, displaying the colors of the 117 states and nations represented in Samford’s body of students and alumni.
Once the procession entered the Wright Center, music by the Samford Choral Union and University Festival Ensemble added to the fanfare.
The ceremony was Samford’s first inauguration since Westmoreland’s predecessor, Thomas E. Corts, assumed the presidency in 1983. The investiture service was the culmination of nearly two weeks’ worth of inaugural festivities that included an informal meet-and-greet with the Westmorelands following the homecoming parade Oct. 21 and a Nov. 2 inaugural ball concluding the festivities.
At Ouachita, Westmoreland was known for having strong, personal relationships with students, and he has already begun to carry on that tradition at Samford.
“We have enjoyed your presence on campus thus far and look forward to what you will bring in the future,” said Taylor Clement, Samford’s Student Government Association president, during the service.
Keeping a finger on the pulse of students’ needs was one of three areas of focus Westmoreland highlighted in his vision for Samford during his inaugural address.
“My vision for student life in this place is that we would preserve, nurture and build a community in which relationships are cherished … faith becomes real and life meets meaning,” he said.
In addition, Westmoreland noted that more strategic planning for long-term goals and a continued commitment to faith are part of his vision for the school.
He also said he hoped “we would keep faith — good faith — with the depth and breath of our Baptist constituency. I will be a friend to Alabama Baptists and believers throughout the world as we aim to be Christ-centered.”
Don T. Sandley, chair of Samford’s Faculty Senate, affirmed the faculty’s support of Westmoreland in his vision.
“We believe the greatest times … lie just ahead at Samford University,” Sandley said. “We feel honored to serve with you as we reach for these aspirations.”
Westmoreland said he would need the help and support of everyone for the “long haul.”
“[L]et us be anchored, let us be in harmony and let us be free in our quest for knowledge,” Westmoreland said. “And may God take us and bless us and use us in bringing hope to a world in need.”
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