Harding University President Dr. Mike Williams announced Friday that Dr. Scott Adair has been selected as the next dean of the College of Bible and Ministry.
Dr. Adair will continue serving as associate dean during the 2026-27 academic year before officially transitioning into the dean position for the 2027-28 school year following the retirement of longtime dean Dr. Monte Cox.
Dr. Cox has served as dean of the College of Bible and Ministry for 21 years and has helped shape generations of students through leadership in missions, theology and global education opportunities at Harding University.
University officials praised Dr. Cox for his work as founding director of the Center for World Missions, creator of the Living World Religions course, recipient of the Fulks Distinguished Chair for the Study of World Religions, and his role in expanding global and experiential learning opportunities for students.
“While leadership transitions often bring anxiety, the succession within the College of Bible and Ministry represents the very best of Harding’s mission and character,” said Williams. “This seamless transition ensures our momentum remains strong as we continue to equip the next generation of kingdom leaders.”
Dr. Adair has been a member of the Harding faculty since 2001 and currently serves as associate dean and professor in the College of Bible and Ministry. He earned his Doctor of Ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary along with degrees from Harding University and Harding School of Theology.
Throughout his teaching career, Dr. Adair has focused on subjects including the life and teachings of Jesus, Christology and comparative dogmatics. He received the Teacher Achievement Award from colleagues in both 2011 and 2020.
University leaders also highlighted his leadership in developing initiatives such as Theological Table Talk and Theology Colloquy, programs designed to encourage thoughtful Christ-centered conversations across campus.
Dr. Cox praised Adair’s leadership and influence at Harding, citing his involvement in the Liberal Arts Core, The Big Questions initiative, the Statement of Faith, and the Faculty Leadership Council.
In addition to his academic work, Dr. Adair has served in ministry for many years as both a minister and elder at Highway Church of Christ.
Located in Searcy, Harding University is the largest private university in Arkansas and serves students from across the United States and more than 60 nations and territories.
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