Harding University president Mike Williams announced today that Dr. Scott Adair has been selected as the next dean of the College of Bible and Ministry. He will continue as associate dean in 2026-27 and transition into the dean position for the 2027–28 academic year, following the retirement of longtime dean Dr. Monte Cox.
Dr. Monte Cox has served as dean of the College of Bible and Ministry for 21 years. As founding director of the Center for World Missions, creator of the highly popular Living World Religions course, recipient of the Fulks Distinguished Chair for the Study of World Religions, and leader in expanding global and experiential learning opportunities at Harding, he has profoundly shaped students’ understanding of faith, culture and the world.
“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 Dr. Mike Williams, president of Harding University. “Over the coming year, we will celebrate the distinguished, Spirit-led career of Dr. Monte Cox, honoring his immense impact on our community. Simultaneously, we look forward with great anticipation as Dr. Scott Adair steps into this role to build upon that legacy of faithfulness. This seamless transition ensures our momentum remains strong as we continue to equip the next generation of kingdom leaders.”
Dr. Adair currently serves as associate dean and professor in the College of Bible and Ministry and has been a valued member of the Harding faculty since 2001. He holds a Doctor of Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary, along with degrees from Harding University and Harding School of Theology. His teaching has focused on areas such as the life and teachings of Jesus, comparative dogmatics and Christology. Having received the Teacher Achievement Award from his colleagues in both 2011 and 2020, he is widely respected for his ability to connect theology with the lived experience of faith.
Dr. Adair has played a meaningful role in shaping the college’s culture through his leadership in fostering engagement and dialogue, including initiatives such as Theological Table Talk and Theology Colloquy, which bring colleagues together for thoughtful, Christ-centered conversations within the college and across campus. His relational approach, commitment to collaboration and investment in community have made a lasting impact and position him well to lead the College of Bible and Ministry into the future.
“Scott has played a key role, often behind the scenes, in major developments at Harding, including the development of the Liberal Arts Core and The Big Questions initiative, the Statement of Faith, and the growth and development of the Faculty Leadership Council,” said Dr. Monte Cox. “In fact, he was elected by his peers in 2019 to serve as the FLC’s first president-elect. Scott has the respect of his faculty and staff colleagues and his students.”
In addition to his academic leadership, Dr. Adair has faithfully served in ministry for many years as both a minister and an elder at Highway Church of Christ, reflecting his deep commitment to both scholarship and faith.
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