Neal Embry joined the Samford staff in June 2023 after seven years in journalism. A native of Vestavia Hills, Alabama, he earned a degree in mass communication from the University of Montevallo in Montevallo, Alabama, as well as a Master of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

He spent two years at a daily newspaper in Jonesboro, Arkansas, before moving back home and joining Starnes Media, which publishes six newspapers in the metro Birmingham area. During his time at Starnes Media, he served as a reporter and later editor for the Vestavia Voice and later became the editor of The Homewood Star. Both papers received numerous awards during his time on staff.

In his role at Samford, Neal provides leadership and expertise in the areas of marketing and communication to Beeson Divinity School, helping tell the story of what God is doing in and through Beeson’s students, faculty and staff.

Neal and his wife, Destiny, are the proud parents of Mary-Kenneth and are expecting their second child, Anderson, in August 2024. They are also parents to a miniature golden doodle named Reese and a one-eyed cat named Poppy.

Degrees and Certifications

• MDiv, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, 2021

• BA, Mass Communication, University of Montevallo, 2013

  • Minor in Public Relations