Abbey Excellence

Belmont Abbey College thrived under the leadership of President Bill Thierfelder for 21 years, and last spring’s retirement announcement led the Board of Trustees to engage in a search for his successor. We employed one of the top Catholic recruiters in the country, formed a Search Committee, and worked for over 7 months to carefully select the new President of Belmont Abbey College from a pool of exemplary candidates.

I am very pleased that Dr. Jeffrey W. Talley, Lieutenant General, U.S. Army (Retired), has joined the College as our 21st president, as of January 2, 2026. A Three Star General who commanded the US Army Reserve, Jeff holds a PhD, several master’s degrees, and a number of patents. He has also served on the faculty of several prestigious universities.

In making this decision, the Board sought several essential characteristics. The first was leadership: the ability to provide vision; set clear, measurable goals and attain them; and identify, motivate, and work with excellent people. Jeff has led men in combat and has been highly praised for his collaborative success, including in the academic setting.

Second, Jeff is a man of deep Catholic faith who understands the College mission and will live it. He has been an active Benedictine Oblate for decades. He understands and expresses the importance of the College’s Benedictine and Catholic tradition and the apostolate that our monastery formed nearly 150 years ago.

Third, Jeff will lead the College in continuing and improving its academic work. He believes that a strong Catholic liberal arts college, with its other important offerings, can thrive in this competitive environment. His many years as a faculty member provide the background to value and support our Abbey faculty.

Fourth, Jeff advocates forming the whole person: mind, body, and soul. He wants all the areas of the College to thrive in accordance with its mission and vision, from its students to academics, sports, and administration.

Fifth, like all colleges, we are constantly under strain from the financial environment. Jeff has a track record of running successful organizations. He is a proven fundraiser. Given his military and academic background and his experience building and running his own thriving business, Jeff is “well connected,” which will greatly benefit the College.

Though not a comprehensive list, these strengths identify Jeff Talley as the person to lead Belmont Abbey College forward, now and into the future. Through the intercession of Mary Help of Christians, we believe and trust that the Holy Spirit led the Board, the monastic community, and Jeff to this exciting new beginning.