After nearly 15 years at the helm, Dr. John W. Stewart III has announced he will step down as president of the University of Montevallo at the end of July.
Stewart, who became the 15th president of the university on October 14, 2010, is the second-longest serving president in the institution’s 129-year history. His tenure has been marked by academic innovation, campus growth, and increased student engagement.
“Cindi and I are incredibly grateful to the UM community for so many wonderful years together,” Stewart said. “We appreciate the many meaningful relationships we’ve enjoyed with our students, faculty, staff, and alumni, and we wish the UM family all the best in the future.”
During his presidency, Stewart focused on strengthening the university’s core mission. His administration expanded academic and athletic programs, promoted interdisciplinary studies, increased funding for faculty salaries and development, and spearheaded the construction of new campus facilities. The university also saw a rise in first-year freshman and transfer applications and an increase in the number of students living on campus.
Among the initiatives launched under Stewart’s leadership was the Outdoor Scholars program, which features a bass fishing team that has won four consecutive Bass Pro Shops School of the Year titles. He also introduced the Montevallo MADE program, which boasts a 90 percent retention rate.
Stewart’s influence extended beyond the campus. In 2015, the Birmingham Business Alliance named him a CEO of the Year Finalist and honored him with the Vulcan’s Community Award for Outstanding New Leadership.
Before joining the University of Montevallo, Stewart served as vice president for institutional advancement at Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Wake Forest University, a master’s from Washington College, and a doctorate from the University of Southern Mississippi.
The University of Montevallo Board of Trustees will begin the search for Stewart’s successor.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
