Arkansas Baptist College has terminated President William “Bill” Walker Jr. and named Dr. George Herts acting president, effective immediately.
Walker, who was appointed president in October 2025, had been placed on leave pending a board review. Trustee Gene McKissic said the board affirmed a recommendation to terminate Walker after presenting him with several concerns and allowing him an opportunity to respond. College officials have not publicly disclosed the specific reasons for his removal.
Herts previously served Arkansas Baptist College as interim president and vice president for academic and student affairs. His higher education experience also includes leadership roles at Shorter College and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
Before becoming president, Walker served on the Arkansas Baptist College Board of Trustees beginning in 2017.