News Summary
Nayef Samhat will step down as Wofford College president at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year after serving since 2013. His tenure saw substantial growth, including an increase in the college’s endowment, major donations, and the construction of eight new facilities. The board has begun a national search for his successor.
Spartanburg, South Carolina – Wofford College President Nayef Samhat has announced he will step down at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 academic year after leading the institution since 2013. His tenure has been marked by significant growth and development for the college, including a remarkable increase in the college’s endowment, which now exceeds $300 million.
Under Samhat’s leadership, Wofford College received a historic $150 million gift from alumnus Jerry Richardson in 2021, substantially contributing to the college’s financial stability. Following Richardson’s passing in 2023, the college continues to honor his legacy, which has had a lasting impact on the institution.
Significantly, eight new facilities have been constructed during Samhat’s presidency, enhancing the college campus and its offerings. Notable projects include the Jerry Richardson Indoor Stadium, the Rosalind Sallenger Richardson Center for the Arts, and the Stewart H. Johnson Greek Village. Furthermore, the Wofford College campus has expanded west of North Church Street, which now includes new dormitories at Northside Station and a state-of-the-art college bookstore.
Christopher A.P. Carpenter, chair of Wofford’s board of trustees, commended Samhat for positioning the college effectively for future success. Wofford College has seen positive developments in various areas, including academic rigor, new student enrollment, retention and graduation rates, fiscal strength, and overall engagement from students, alumni, and parents.
The board of trustees has initiated a national search for Samhat’s successor. The search committee will consist of trustees, faculty members, staff, students, and alumni, with the goal of selecting the new president by May 2026.
Samhat has an extensive background in higher education, previously serving as provost and professor at Kenyon College, as well as an associate dean and professor at Centre College. Throughout his administration at Wofford, he has emphasized building a close-knit community and fostering a family-like atmosphere amongst students, faculty, and staff.
He reflects on his time at Wofford with gratitude, noting that he has felt more than just a professional connection, but a familial bond within the community. As the 11th president of Wofford College, which was founded in 1854, Samhat has played a crucial role in the institution’s development over the past decade.
In summary, Nayef Samhat’s impending departure marks the end of a significant era for Wofford College. His leadership has transformed the college, ensuring it remains a thriving educational institution with a solid financial foundation and a commitment to academic excellence.
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Additional Resources
- WYFF4 News: Wofford College President Steps Down
- Wikipedia: Wofford College
- Fox Carolina: Wofford College President Steps Down After 13 Years
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wofford College
- WSPA News: Upstate College President Steps Down
- Google Search: Wofford College president Nayef Samhat
- MSN: Wofford College’s 11th President Nayef Samhat to Step Down
