Interim Morehouse College President William Taggart dies

Interim Morehouse College President William “Bill” Taggart has died of an aneurysm, officials announced. Taggart, who was 55, passed away suddenly at his home in Atlanta on June 8.

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Bill Taggart, a beloved colleague, father and friend whom I’ve known for many years,” said Willie Woods, ’85, Chairman of the Morehouse College Board of Trustees. “Bill was a good friend and a beloved member of the Morehouse community. He was a strong leader who had a positive impact on Morehouse College, the greater Atlanta business community, and all those who knew him. Bill leaves behind a long legacy of commitment to others and unwavering integrity. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, and the entire Morehouse Community, we extend our sincerest condolences to his family, friends and loved ones he leaves behind during this difficult time.”

Taggart was appointed to lead Morehouse College on April 7, 2017. named interim president in April to replace President John Silvanus Wilson. Taggart brought more than 30 years of experience to the role. Prior to that, he served as the College’s Chief Operating Officer, beginning in 2015.

Outside of Morehouse College, Taggart was actively involved in several business and civic organizations. He served as CEO of Atlanta Life Financial Group and was a key member of 100 Black Men of America, as well as the Rotary Club of Atlanta. He also served as chairman of the Atlanta Business League, and was a board member of The Carter Center, Woodruff Arts Center, Westside Future Fund, Carver Bank, and Children Healthcare of Atlanta. He was recently named to the 2018 Class of Leadership Atlanta. The board said Taggart’s contributions within and outside of Morehouse College are a reflection of his immense dedication and commitment to his community.