SPARTANBURG, SOUTH CAROLINA—Dr. John A. Roush, president emeritus of Centre College, will serve as Wofford College’s opening convocation speaker Thursday, Sept. 2, and will receive an honorary degree in humanities during the program, which will be held in the college’s Jerry Richardson Indoor Stadium.
Opening convocation marks the beginning of a new academic year. Fall classes begin at Wofford Wednesday, Sept. 1.
Roush served as president of Centre College in Danville, Kentucky, for 22 years before retiring in 2020.
Under his leadership, the college increased its student body and raised the quality and diversity of its student population while expanding its reputation as a place of high achievement and high opportunity. The number of faculty and staff increased by 100, financial aid programs were improved and the college had successful capital and comprehensive campaigns.
Roush grew up in Ohio and was active in athletics, music and theatre at Kettering Fairmont West High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Ohio University’s Honors College, where he graduated summa cum laude. He was named Ohio University’s Scholar Athlete of the Year and a three-time Academic All-American in football. He completed his formal education at Miami (Ohio) University by earning a master’s degree and a Ph.D.
He began his career in higher education at Miami University as an assistant football coach before transitioning to administration. At the University of Richmond, he served as executive assistant to the president and was made vice president for planning and secretary to the college’s board of trustees.
In addition to his work in higher education, Roush was a captain in the U.S. Army. He is a regular contributor to professional journals in the areas of leadership, governance and finance in higher education and intercollegiate sports.
He remains active on boards, including the University of Richmond’s board of trustees, and is active in civic and community affairs in the Danville region. He also consults with the Association of Presbyterian Colleges & Universities.
The event can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/w6HEXbf69KU