INAUGURATION
Dr. Beck A. Taylor Inaugurated as Samford’s 19th President, Remains “Rooted and Grounded in Love” By Jessica Black
On Nov. 4, Dr. Beck A. Taylor was inaugurated as Samford University’s 19th president. In his moving inaugural address to the more than 1,200 guests in attendance, President Taylor shared the theme of his presidency, centered around Ephesians 3:16-19—and encouraged the Samford community to remain “rooted and grounded in love.” Left to right: President Emeritus Andrew Westmoreland, Former First Lady Jeanna Westmoreland, Former First Lady Marla Corts, First Lady Julie Taylor and President Beck A. Taylor
14 • Seasons • Fall 2021
It was a day of tradition and celebration, as Samford hosted the ceremonial inauguration of President Taylor. Rich with the formality of academic ceremony and elements of university history, the service was a glorious demonstration of Samford’s faith, unity and legacy. Set in the Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center, the service began in spectacular fashion, with a procession of robed delegates from more than 65 higher education institutions and associations, Samford’s Board of Trustees, deans, members of the executive leadership team, faculty members, representatives of student organizations, administrative officers, and 112 flags representing the
