Rust College is pleased to announce Dr. Johnny M. Moore as the 13th president in the institution’s nearly 160-year history.

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 (2016 to 2021) and Philander Smith University, a United Methodist Church -affiliated HBCU in Little Rock, Ark. (2012 to 2014).

“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.”

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.

Read the full announcement on the Rust College website here.