Rolundus R. Rice

Dr. Rolundus Rice tells the story of how he dropped out of high school in Atlanta and his then-girlfriend found out and promptly dropped him. The motivation to get her back changed the trajectory of his life. He subsequently earned a GED before earning a Ph.D. from Auburn University in the discipline of History. It is believed that he was the first GED recipient to earn the terminal degree from Auburn since the school was founded in 1856.

Dr. Rice, who former students referred to as “The Dapper Dean,” returned to Tuskegee this week as Chief Operating Officer. He taught world history here while completing his doctoral studies at Auburn University. With more than 20 years of experience in higher education, he joins TU after having served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Rust College in Holly Springs, Mississippi. Prior to the vice presidency, Rice has served as history professor, dean of an undergraduate division and a graduate school. Dr. Rice is an expert on 20th-century history, specifically, the Modern Civil Rights Movement. His latest book, Hosea Williams: A Lifetime of Defiance and Protest, was recently published by the University of South Carolina Press.

Dr. Rice is uniquely qualified to serve as TU’s Chief Operating Officer. He has held leadership roles outside of academic affairs. He has also served as chief diversity officer and assistant vice president for student affairs and enrollment management.

Dr. Rice is a listener and a learner who values the views and experiences of people with diverse perspectives.

Dr. Rice is married to the former Dana Lee. They have four children who aspire to be future Golden Tigers.