Rust College celebrates 158th Founders’ Week

Mississippi’s oldest HBCU to welcome alumni and national scholars including Ida B. Wells descendant

Oct. 30, 2024 – Rust College is proud to announce its 158th Founders’ Week celebration, scheduled for Nov. 3-10. This annual event honors the institution’s rich history and the enduring commitment of its founders to provide quality education.

Based on the theme, Continuing the Legacy of Excellence, the week will begin Sunday, Nov. 3, with a Bell Ringing Ceremony and Worship Service at Asbury United Methodist Church in Holly Springs.

Other activities include tributes and seminars featuring a talk by Michelle Duster, scholar and great-granddaughter of anti-lynching crusader, journalist, and former Rust student, Ida B. Wells, the annual parade and the Dr. Ishmell Edwards Classic basketball games.

The celebration will culminate on Sunday, Nov. 10, with the Founders’ Convocation featuring former Tennessee State University President Dr. Glenda B. Glover as the keynote speaker at 11 a.m.

“This celebration is a testament to the enduring legacy of our founders and the impact that Rust College has had on generations of students,” says Dr. Robert M. Dixon, Rust College president. “We are excited to welcome alumni, students, and friends of the college to join us on this momentous occasion.”

Rust College continues to thrive as a historically Black, senior liberal arts, church-related institution, serving students from diverse backgrounds. The college’s commitment to providing affordable, quality education remains steadfast.