Rust College has announced the appointment of Dr. Johnny M. Moore as the 13th president in the institution’s nearly 160-year history. Moore was selected out of nearly 200 candidates during a national president’s search. His tenure at Rust will begin on August 11.

Prior to joining Rust, Dr. Moore served as the Chancellor of Arkansas State University – Newport (ASUN), a part of a three-campus system. Under his leadership, the university increased enrollment and completion rates, launched its first Honors College and Intercollegiate Athletics programs, and expanded academic offerings in high-demand fields, including Radiologic Technology, Data Science, and Data Analytics. He also secured a record-breaking $5 million federal grant to establish a Health Science Center.

An Arkansas native, HBCU graduate, and mathematics professor, Dr. Moore has been revered nationally as a leader in higher education for more than 30 years. Prior to his time at ASUN, Dr. Moore held the positions of President and CEO at Pierpoint Community and Technical College in West Virginia, from 2016 to 2021, and Philander Smith College, a United Methodist Church affiliated HBCU, from 2012 to 2014.

“Through our long, distinguished history, Rust College has continued to attract and serve the next generation of Bearcats by combining innovation with beloved, time-honored traditions. Dr. Moore’s respect for our past and vision for our future, along with his wealth of experience, make him uniquely equipped to lead Rust as our 13th president.”

– said Barkese M. Dalton, Rust College Board of Trustees Chair

“It is an honor and privilege to join the Rust College family. An HBCU education laid the foundation for my success in life, and I fully embrace this opportunity to contribute to the rich legacy of the state’s first and most historic HBCU. I am looking forward to carrying a vision for growth and impact for the campus and community.”

– said Dr. Johnny M. Moore, Rust College President-Elect

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Johnny M. Moore on his appointment as the 13th President of Rust College. This marks an exciting new chapter in the 160-year history of Rust College, one of the nation’s oldest and most esteemed HBCUs. Dr. Moore brings with him a wealth of experience, having previously served as president of another HBCU. His deep understanding of higher education and strong leadership will undoubtedly propel Rust College forward, fostering continued innovation and excellence. We are confident that under President Moore’s vision Rust College will reach new heights and remain a pillar of academic distinction for generations to come. Once again, congratulations to President Moore—we look forward to witnessing Rust College’s continued growth and success.”

– said HCF Founder, President & CEO Demetrius Johnson, Jr.

Dr. Moore holds a Bachelor of Science in mathematics from Philander Smith College, a Master of Science in mathematics from Arkansas State University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in mathematics education from Florida Institute of Technology.

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