HOLLY SPRINGS, MS – Rust College invites the campus community, alumni, families, and friends to its historic 160th Commencement Weekend, May 2-3, 2026. This milestone celebration honors the Class of 2026, distinguished guests, and anniversary classes while showcasing the College’s enduring legacy as one of the nation’s oldest HBCUs.
Weekend Schedule of Events:
Saturday, May 2, 2026
5:30 p.m.
Senior Service of Consecration
Doxey Auditorium
7:00 p.m.
Lyceum Series: “Conversation with Dr. Michael Eric Dyson”
Doxey Auditorium, followed by reception and book signing
Sunday, May 3, 2026
7:30 a.m.
Senior Breakfast
Shaw Cafeteria
11:00 a.m.
160th Commencement Exercises
Grand Lawn in front of McCoy Administration Building
Live stream information:
YouTube: RustCollege
Facebook: @rcbearcats1866
Simulcast: Rust College Radio Station WURC 88.1 FM
Website: www.rustcollege.edu
Renowned scholar, author, and public intellectual Dr. Michael Eric Dyson will deliver the commencement address and receive the honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree. Dr. Dyson serves as Distinguished University Professor of African American and Diaspora Studies and Ethics and Society at Vanderbilt University.
The College will also confer the honorary Doctor of Humane Letters upon Mrs. Cecelia W. Sawyer, distinguished Rust College alumna and trailblazing healthcare executive. A former CEO within Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare and former Chair of the Rust College Board of Trustees, Mrs. Sawyer exemplifies transformative leadership in healthcare and community service.
The ceremony will also honor the Golden (Class of 1976) and Silver (Class of 2001) Anniversary Classes for their 50th and 25th reunions and lasting contributions to Rust College.
Members of the media and campus guests are invited to attend. For more information or media credentials, contact the Office of Public Relations and Marketing at Rust College.
For media inquiries, contact the Office of Public Relations and Marketing, Rust College, mlesueur@rustcollege.edu or 662-544-0950.
