Albany State University, the largest HBCU in the State of Georgia, has chosen Dr. Rashad Richey, media icon and president of Rolling Out, to be their commencement speaker for the December 2023 graduating class. This class consists of over 800 students. With Dr. Richey’s vast experience in academia and media, he brought a wealth of knowledge and insight to the graduates. Dr. Richey quoted influential figures like Clifford “TI” Harris and Mother Teresa, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself. He urged the graduates to offer their genuine and unique contributions to the world. Dr. Richey is widely recognized as a television opinion news anchor for Indisputable with Dr. Rashad Richey on the TYT Network. His show is syndicated through various national cable platforms including Comcast, Xfinity, Samsung TV, Roku TV, and Pluto TV. Dr. Richey made history as the first political analyst to receive an Emmy nomination at CBS News Atlanta. He has also been recognized as the ‘Best TV Anchor’ by Atlanta Magazine and the ‘Best Radio Personality’ by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, making him the first African American to receive these accolades. Dr. Richey hosts the Dr. Rashad Richey Review on SiriusXM Urban View Channel 126 and The Rashad Richey Morning Show on News & Talk 1380-WAOK, V-103 (HD3), and Audacy App. He has a substantial following on YouTube and Facebook Watch, with over 2.4 million subscribers/followers.
The commencement ceremony was a celebration for both graduates and their supporters. Many graduates have already secured promising career opportunities. Shai’Quez Gray, a mass communication graduate, will be working as a reporter and videographer at WSST CBS 44 News. Ariana Woods, an accounting graduate, has accepted a position as a tax associate with PricewaterhouseCoopers and has also been accepted into Northeastern University’s master’s degree program. Alexandria Mickle, a criminal justice graduate, has been accepted into the prestigious Business Administration program at South Carolina State University and has received a full scholarship. These success stories demonstrate the impact of Albany State University graduates, as well as the exceptional leadership and faculty.
Dr. Marion Fredrick, the university president, is a trailblazing academic leader. Dr. Richey commended her for her dedication to education and progress. He also acknowledged Dr. Wendy Wilson, the VP for University Relations/Chief of Staff, for her instrumental role in coordinating with his team and the university. With the graduates’ achievements, supportive professors, and Dr. Richey’s inspiring words, these graduates are well-equipped to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Dr. Richey, a Visiting Scholar at Clark Atlanta University, holds multiple advanced degrees. He completed his doctoral studies in federal policy reform at Clark Atlanta University and earned a second PhD from the Business University of Costa Rica, specializing in the intersectionality of government, religions, politics, policy, and society. He also holds an MBA from Beulah Heights University and has completed Executive Leadership studies from Cornell University. Dr. Richey recently obtained his Juris Doctor from Renaissance University and has been accepted into the prestigious specialty law executive education program at Harvard Law School. Additionally, he serves as the Director of Global Legal Operations for the International Law Group of Human & Civil Rights Attorneys, P.C., also known as The Fairness Firm.
Dr. Richey is highly knowledgeable in physics and neuroscience. He is the Professor of Physics and Department Chair at Partis Graduate School. He holds a Master of Science in Applied Physics & Quantum Mechanics and a Master of Science in Neuroscience. Dr. Richey’s impressive credentials have earned him recognition as one of the most academically credentialed individuals in modern history.
He has been invited to speak and lecture at renowned institutions such as the University of Michigan, the National Society of Black Physicists – 2023 Annual Conference, Reinhardt University, the University of West GA, Morehouse School of Medicine, and Morris Brown College.
Overall, Dr. Rashad Richey’s commencement speech at Albany State University left a lasting impact on the graduating class. His words resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and making a difference in the world. The success stories of the graduates further highlight the university’s commitment to empowering its students and preparing them for successful careers.
Written By: Jeremy Wilson
