Johnny M. Moore has been named the thirteenth president of Rust College, a historically Black educational institution in Holly Springs, Mississippi. The college enrolls over 400 students, 93 percent of whom are Black.
With a background in higher education that spans more than three decades, Dr. Moore most recently served as chancellor of Arkansas State University-Newport. Under his leadership, the campus significantly increased enrollment and completion rates, launched its first Honors College and athletic programs, expanded academic offerings, and secured record-breaking funding to establish a Health Science Center.
Earlier in his career, Dr. Moore was president and chief executive officer at Pierpont Community & Technical College in Fairmont, West Virginia, for five years. He has also served in the same capacity at what is now Philander Smith University, an HBCU in Little Rock, Arkansas.
“It is an honor and privilege to join the Rust College family,” said Dr. Moore. “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.”
Dr. Moore holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Philander Smith University, a master’s degree in mathematics from Arkansas State University, and a Ph.D. in mathematics education from the Florida Institute of Technology.
