HOLLY SPRINGS, MS – Rust College proudly announces that renowned scholar, author, and public intellectual Dr. Michael Eric Dyson will serve as the Commencement Speaker for the College’s 160th Commencement Exercises, to be held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. on the historic Grand Lawn of the Rust College campus.
Dr. Dyson is widely regarded as one of the nation’s most influential voices in academia and public discourse. He currently serves as Distinguished University Professor of African American and Diaspora Studies and Distinguished University Professor of Ethics and Society at Vanderbilt University. The author of more than 25 books, including several New Y ork Times bestsellers, Dr. Dyson’s work continues to shape conversations around race, justice, culture, and leadership.
“We are deeply honored to welcome Dr. Dyson to Rust College for this historic occasion,” said Dr. Johnny M. Moore, President of Rust College. “His scholarship, moral clarity, and unwavering commitment to truth and justice will undoubtedly inspire our graduates as they prepare to lead with purpose and courage.”
As part of the commencement ceremony, Rust College will confer upon Dr. Dyson the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to scholarship, public discourse, and social transformation.
Alongside celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2026, Rust College will also honor the Golden and Silver Anniversary Classes, whose enduring legacy and contributions continue to shape the institution and inspire future generations.
Dr. Dyson’s distinguished career spans academia, ministry, and media. A Princeton University Ph.D. graduate, he has taught at several of the nation’s most prestigious institutions, including Brown University, Columbia University, Georgetown University, and the University of Pennsylvania. His works have earned multiple honors, including the Langston Hughes Medal, NAACP Image Awards, and the American Book Award.
In addition to his scholarly achievements, Dr. Dyson is a gifted preacher and dynamic orator who has addressed audiences across the country and around the world. His voice continues to challenge and inspire dialogues on issues of race, equity, and social justice.
The 160th Commencement Exercises will celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026 and the enduring legacy of Rust College as one of the nation’s oldest Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
For additional information, please contact the Director of Public Relations and Marketing Mary LeSueur at (662) 252-8000, ext. 4915, cell (662) 544-0950 or mlesueur@rustcollege.edu
