Harding University Announces Bruce McLarty as Next President, Associated with Churches of Christ

Bruce McLarty, the newly appointed president of Harding University, will assume leadership in June 2013, marking the first time in 25 years the institution will have a new president. McLarty, currently serving as Harding’s vice president of spiritual life, succeeds David Burks, who has led the 6,800-student university for 26 years. During Burks’ tenure, Harding maintained 25 consecutive years of record enrollment. The board of trustees praised McLarty’s leadership qualities, describing him as a servant leader with a strong grasp of the university’s spiritual mission.

McLarty’s faith background is deeply rooted in the Churches of Christ. He was raised in a family that prioritized regular church attendance, with his mother coming from a lineage within the denomination and his father being baptized when McLarty was five. The family’s commitment to faith was evident in their daily lives, and McLarty credits his parents and siblings for shaping his spiritual development. He also recalls being influenced by the strong biblical teachings and evangelistic efforts of the congregations he grew up in.

At the age of 12, McLarty experienced a conviction of his need for forgiveness, a pivotal moment that led to his decision to become a Christian. This early commitment to faith has continued to guide his life and ministry. His upbringing within the Churches of Christ has provided a foundation for his understanding of Christian higher education, which he views as a vital mission.

McLarty’s selection as Harding’s next president reflects the university’s commitment to its denominational roots and its mission of Christian education. The board of trustees emphasized his ability to communicate effectively and his clear vision for the institution’s future. As he prepares to lead Harding, McLarty aims to uphold the university’s spiritual mission while addressing the challenges and opportunities facing Christian higher education today.

The transition of leadership at Harding University underscores the ongoing role of the Churches of Christ in shaping institutional values and educational goals. As McLarty steps into his new role, his background and convictions will continue to influence the direction of the university. His leadership offers a glimpse into the future of Christian higher education within the Restoration movement.

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