Dr. John O. Yarbrough
Acting President, Truett McConnell University
As of June 6, 2025, Dr. John O. Yarbrough serves as the Acting President of Truett McConnell University, returning to lead the institution that has profoundly shaped his life and ministry.
Dr. Yarbrough is a 1969 graduate of TMU and has remained closely connected to the university for decades. From 2007 to 2011, he served on the Board of Trustees, including as Chairman from 2008 to 2009. From 2013 to 2019, he held multiple leadership roles at the university, including Director of Alumni and Public Policy and Associate Professor of Christian Studies.
A respected leader in Georgia Baptist life, Dr. Yarbrough served as President of the Georgia Baptist Convention from 1994 to 1996. He has also remained active in promoting religious freedom across the state and is widely known for his commitment to biblical truth and the local church.
Throughout his ministry, Dr. Yarbrough has served 15 churches as Interim Pastor, offering guidance and stability during times of transition. He continues to preach regularly and views his calling as lifelong: to proclaim the gospel as long as the Lord gives him strength.
John and his wife, Diana, live on Mt. Yonah in Cleveland, Georgia, near the TMU campus. The couple first met in Cleveland as students in 1968 and have since built a life centered on faith, family, and service. They have two children, Joseph and Christina (married to Stephen Lafont), and are proud grandparents to Kalen (18), Tanner (12), Bailey (13), and Charliegh (11).
Dr. Yarbrough’s leadership continues to reflect TMU’s mission: equipping courageous leaders who will stand for truth and boldly proclaim the message of Jesus Christ.