Dr. Andrew Westmoreland, who has served as president of Samford University since 2006, announced on Friday his plans to retire effective June 30, 2021.

Westmoreland informed Samford’s board of trustees about his decision on Thursday and emailed the full school community on Friday morning.

In an email sent to Samford employees on behalf of himself and his wife, Jeanna, Westmoreland said, “We have been blessed with opportunities far beyond our dreams and we believe that this is the appropriate time to open the door for new leaders at Samford.”

The Westmorelands plan to reside in Birmingham after the retirement takes effect, and Dr. Westmoreland plans to retain a part-time role at the school in its Center for Ethics and Leadership.

According to information provided by the university, Samford’s enrollment has increased around 30% since 2006.

Playing a role in the enrollment increase was the creation in 2013 of the College of Health Sciences that collected and expanded the school’s public health offerings.

During Westmoreland’s time in office, Samford raised more than $400 million in philanthropic gifts and made massive expansions to its campus, especially the purchase and renovation of the former Southern Progress Corp. headquarters that sat adjacent to the school until being purchased and incorporated into campus in 2014.

“They have modeled Christian leadership in every way for all of us. Their dedication, beliefs and support have been felt throughout the university and the entire Samford community. We will forever be grateful for their service and wish them the best in every way,” commented Samford board of trustees chair Bill Stevens about the Westmorelands.

Samford trustees Tim Vines — CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama — and Beth Thorne Stukes — a corporate and civic leader from Jasper — have been announced as the leaders of the search committee for Westmoreland’s replacement.

The university currently enrolls 5,692 students and was ranked as the best college in the state by the Wall Street Journal.

Dr. Westmoreland’s letter to the Samford community can be read in full here.

Henry Thornton is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can contact him by email: henry@new-yhn.local or on Twitter @HenryThornton95