American Baptist College has announced the appointment of Rev. Dr. Derrick Johnson as the 11th president by the College’s Board of Trustees, effective immediately. According to the Board Chair Dennie Marshall, the board quickly recognized that Jackson, who has served as interim president since July 1, was the right person to assume the presidency on a permanent basis.

“Derrick Johnson’s background as a business leader, pastor, and educator make him an ideal fit for ABC,” said Marshall. “The next president needs to be focused on increasing enrollment, raising funds, engaging alumni, and strengthening ABC’s relationship with the National Baptist Convention USA. President Jackson is in a unique position to make all of those things happen.”

Jackson is the senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Gallatin, Tenn., where he has served for 24 years. He is also accomplished in various business and entrepreneurial endeavors, serving as executive director of the Sunday School Publishing Board and co-owner of several other ventures. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Prairie View A&M University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Keller Graduate School of Management, as well as a Master of Theological Studies degree from Vanderbilt University and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Lipscomb University.

“I am grateful. There are a lot of good things we can do together. I’m thankful for the work of our former president, Forest Harris, and look forward to continuing the momentum around the energy and synergy already in place. I’m looking forward to continuing what we’ve started together,” said Jackson.

“Nashville needs ABC, and so does the country and the world,” Jackson added.

“We commend the Board of Trustees of American Baptist College on their selection and extend our heartfelt congratulations to President Jackson on his appointment. We are confident in his vision and look forward to supporting his leadership,” said HCF Founder, President & CEO Demetrius Johnson Jr. “The future of ABC is bright, and we are excited to see the continued growth and progress under President Jackson’s guidance. Once again, congratulations, President Jackson—we look forward to witnessing this new era of growth and success.”

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