James T Laney

James Laney served as Emory's 17th president from 1977-1993, and throughout his time on campus, first as a faculty member and dean in the Candler School of Theology then as president, he stressed the essential values of ethical and servant leadership. The moral development of students, a process that includes a commitment to competence and freedom of thought, participation in an inclusive community of lifelong learning, and a focus on moral character, was a core element of his philosophy as president. Dr. Laney worked tirelessly to foster this vision of learning and leadership at Emory. His support was instrumental in the creation of Emory's Center for Ethics in 1991. Dr. Laney earned the highest awards for distinguished service from both the United States and South Korea following his tour of duty as ambassador. A 1992 Emory Medal recipient, President Laney also has received more than 20 honorary degrees from institutions across four continents-including one from Emory in 1994. After earning his Ph.D., President Laney taught at Vanderbilt Divinity School before becoming dean of the Candler School of Theology and then president of Emory. Dr. Laney is married to Berta Laney 94H, and they have four children: Tom Laney 83T, a Nashville resident and member of our host committee, Joan Laney 06P 08OxP, Arthur Laney 77Ox 79C, and Susan Laney Castle 83C 01N 08N. B.A., Economics, Yale University, 1950 B.D., Bachelor of Divinity, Yale Divinity School, 1954 Ph.D., Moral Philosophy and Christian Ethics, Yale University, 1966 D.D., Doctor of Divinity, Florida Southern College, 1977