The Debate security fences and media tent were barely removed from campus before Belmont was moving on to an array of exciting new projects. As Dr. Fisher announced his upcoming retirement, he also made clear his intent to press forward to ensure Belmont’s best days lie ahead.

Longtime President Dr. Bob Fisher announces retirement with an eye toward the future

As 2021 dawns, Belmont will begin preparing to say goodbye to long time University President Dr. Bob Fisher, who recently announced his plan to retire in May 2021. A visionary and innovator in higher education, his tenure is marked by Belmont’s phenomenal growth, dramatic rise in national prominence, dedication to student success and an extraordinary commitment to what he calls “the greatest privilege in life: serving someone else.”

“What has been accomplished by our leadership team, our staff, our faculty and especially our students has exceeded anything we could have imagined,” Fisher said. “My overwhelming response to all that’s been accomplished is a deep sense of gratitude. Without a doubt, my wife Judy and I have been so blessed to be a part of Belmont—we are Bruins for life.” 

While the Board of Trustees begins the process of seeking the University’s next president, Dr. Fisher will be working to advance a number of high priority projects, including construction of the new performing arts center, a groundbreaking for a new residence hall and planning for the new College of Medicine. 

“Belmont University has been blessed beyond measure with great leaders in its past, but Bob Fisher has taken this institution to a level no one could have previously imagined,” said Vice President and Chief of Staff Dr. Susan West, speaking on behalf of the Senior Leadership team. “He set a high bar and demanded excellence in all things and at all times, all while providing opportunities for the people on this campus to work together to lift the University to new heights. His remarkable attention to detail, deep love for our students and passion for Belmont University represent a model that will endure.”

Read the full press release and view photos from Dr. Fisher’s tenure at Belmont here.