July 9, 2025 – Rust College in Holly Springs has announced Dr. Johnny M. Moore as the 13th president in the school’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 joining Rust, Dr. Moore served as the Chancellor of Arkansas State University – Newport (ASUN). 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.
“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.”
New Rust College president Dr. Johnny Moore (Courtesy photo)
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).
Moore was selected out of nearly 200 candidates during a national president’s search. His tenure at Rust will begin on Aug.11, the first day of classes for the 2025 Fall semester.
“Through our long, distinguished history, Rust College has continued to attract and serve the next generation of Rustiness by combining innovation with beloved, time-honored traditions,” said Board of Trustees Chair Barkese M. Dalton. “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.”
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.
