Dr. John O. Yarbrough was named acting president of Truett McConnell University on June 6 following the placement of President Emir Caner on administrative leave amid a campus-wide investigation into sexual abuse allegations.
TMU welcomed Yarbrough via it’s Facebook page. “A distinguished alumnus, dedicated professor, and respected leader within the Georgia Baptist community, Dr. Yarbrough brings deep experience and a strong commitment to lead the university,” the school wrote.
Yarbrough’s relationship with the university spans more than five decades. A graduate of the Class of 1969, he returned to serve on the Board of Trustees from 2007 to 2011, including a term as chairman between 2008 and 2009. From 2013 until 2019, he contributed as Director of Alumni and Public Policy and as an associate professor of Christian studies.
Before rejoining TMU, Yarbrough served as president of the Georgia Baptist Convention from 1994 to 1996. He served 15 congregations as interim pastor and a maintains a mission to champion religious liberty, biblical truth, and the role of the local church.
Yarbrough has taught or preached in major conferences in 48 states, 7 seminaries, 6 colleges, and 7 countries. He lives in Cleveland with his wife, Diana. The couple has two grown married children and four grandchildren.
During preliminary protests, alumni called for transparency and accountability in TMU’s handling of the abuse claims. The Board has requested ongoing prayers from the community as the third-party investigation begins.