TO THE CHAPTER INVISIBLE
William J. "Bill" Taggart 1961-2016 Interim President of Morehouse College, Business Executive
By Aaron Williams
I n April 2017, Brother William task of replacing the 11 th president of Morehouse College, Dr. John Silvanus Wilson Jr. (Pi Chapter 1977) who had stepped down. Hired two years prior as Chief Operating Officer, the longtime business executive was meeting the challenge of leading the college while the school conducted the search for its next president when the unexpected occurred. Brother Taggart, father of a young daughter, passed away in his home from an aneurysm. Brother Tag- gart entered the Chapter Invisible at the age of 55 on June 8, 2017. Person- able, a music lover, and Atlanta sports J. Taggart (Xi 1982) became the interim president of historic More- house College. He had the difficult
fan, Brother Taggart was well liked and regarded by the Morehouse community and leadership as well as throughout the Atlanta business and civic circles. Dr. Wilson remembered about Brother Taggart, “Bill and I became friends when we worked together for Barack Obama. I loved him. I hired him. And I will always honor his memory.” Morehouse College released the follow- ing statement: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of William J. “Bill” Taggart, a beloved colleague, father and friend. For the past two years, Bill devoted himself wholeheart- edly to Morehouse College. We are eternally grateful for his loyal support, counsel, and the leadership he provided
to students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Throughout his tenure, Bill had a posi- tive impact on Morehouse College and the greater Atlanta business commu- nity. He leaves behind a long legacy of compassion, integrity, and devotion. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.” Fellow Howard University alum and At- lanta Mayor Kasim Reed (Atlanta (GA) Alumni 1999) stated “I am saddened by the passing of Morehouse College Interim President William Taggart. Bill was a respected businessman, a devoted father and husband, and a civic leader dedicated to our city. He has served Morehouse College with distinction for the past two years, providing steady leadership for one of the nation’s best
Publishing achievement for more than 100 years
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