19-03-2025
'Untiring service': Longtime American Baptist College President Forrest Harris to retire
After decades of leadership, Forrest E. Harris Sr. will retire as the president of American Baptist College.
The small, private and historically Black college sits atop what its leaders and students call "the holy hill" overlooking the Cumberland River in Nashville. It has produced its share of notable leaders over the years, such as the late U.S. Rep. John Lewis, Bernard Lafayette, C.T. Vivian, Julius Scruggs, James Bevel and others who led went on to lead the fight for racial justice.
"Since assuming the presidency in July 1999, Dr. Harris has been a visionary force, guiding the institution with a steadfast commitment to theological education, social justice and the empowerment of future leaders," the school said in a news release Wednesday.
American Baptist College recently celebrated its 100th year and hosted a centennial celebration of the impact the small-but-mighty-school has had on Nashville and beyond. The college was started in 1924 through a partnership between the Southern Baptist Convention, which was predominantly white, and the National Baptist Convention, which was predominantly Black. It set out with the goal of empowering Black students to earn certifications to preach, teach and lead their communities.
"Without the witness and story of American Baptist College, Nashville would not be where it is today," Harris said, going on to say that influence has also touched the nation and the world. "We know that God has built a treasure, a history on the 'holy hill' of American Baptist College."
Dennie Marshall, who chairs the college's board, is a longtime friend of Harris and praised his "untiring service" to the school.
"Dr. Harris's leadership has been instrumental in strengthening ABC's mission, elevating its national profile, and expanding its impact in Christian ministry, social justice advocacy and higher education," Marshall said in the release.
From President Forrest E. Harris: American Baptist College educated John Lewis, CT Vivian and others over the last 100 years
The board plans to launch a nationwide search for the next president of the HBCU, according to the release. The college will also host a "Legacy of Leadership Gala" on June 28 to honor Harris and his legacy. It will be held at the Cal Turner Family Center at Meharry Medical College.
Additionally, the school will start an endowment in Harris's name called the "Legacy of Leadership Fund." The fund will be dedicated to empowering leaders through the college and supporting its programs on theology and social justice.
Information on the gala, the fund and more can be found at or by contacting the school's Office of Institutional Advancement at RoadTo100@
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Forrest Harris, president of American Baptist College, to retire
