Jax State Awards Honorary Doctorate to Country Music Star Riley Green at Spring Commencement

Jacksonville, AL (04/30/2026) — Jacksonville State University awarded an Honorary Doctorate to Jacksonville native Riley Green during its Spring Commencement ceremony on Thursday, April 30, at Pete Mathews Coliseum. Green, who also served as keynote speaker for the 1 p.m. ceremony honoring graduates from the College of Education and Professional Studies, received the honor prior to addressing the graduates. The ceremony was one of five held at Pete Mathews Coliseum over two days.

A former Jax State quarterback, Green began his journey on campus before pursuing a successful career in country music. Today, he is recognized as one of the genre's most prominent voices, earning multiple Academy of Country Music honors and producing chart-topping hits including "There Was This Girl," "I Wish Grandpas Never Died," and "Half of Me."

Green's return to campus marked a full-circle moment as he addressed graduates preparing to take their next steps, offering a message centered on work ethic, persistence, and taking ownership of one's path.

"So my advice to the 2026 graduating class is grab the heavy end," said Green. "Whatever you're doing, whatever it is that you find that you're good at-and you will find something- don't let it get away. Chase it."

The Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, was conferred in recognition of his accomplishments in the music industry, his continued support of Jacksonville and Jax State, and his impact as an ambassador for his hometown on a national stage. The hooding was performed by members of the Jax State Board of Trustees, including Randy Owen and Chairman Randy Jones.

As noted in the resolution adopted by the Board of Trustees, the honorary doctorate was presented in recognition of Green's "outstanding contributions to music, his continued service to his hometown, and his unwavering support of Jacksonville State University."

"Riley's story is one our students can see themselves in," said Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. "He started here, put in the work, took a chance on his path, and built something meaningful. What makes today special is not just what he's accomplished, but how he has continued to show up for this university and this community. He represents the very best of Jax State, and we are proud to recognize both his success and his impact with this honorary doctorate."

An avid outdoorsman and sports fan, Green continues to build on his momentum with new music, national tours, and recent ventures into acting. Despite his success, he has remained closely tied to his roots, often reflecting his upbringing and values in his music.

Jacksonville State University congratulates the Spring 2026 graduates and celebrates Riley Green's achievements and contributions, both to his field and to the community he continues to represent.

In addition to the College of Education and Professional Studies ceremony, Jax State held commencement ceremonies on Thursday for the College of Arts, Humanities, and Sciences and the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Friday's ceremonies will recognize graduates from the College of Business and Industry and the College of Health Professions and Wellness.

Alumnus David Glenn, Chief Meteorologist at WTVC-TV in Chattanooga, served as the keynote speaker for the College of Arts, Humanities, and Sciences. A graduate of Jax State, Glenn has built a distinguished career in broadcast meteorology and has remained actively engaged with the university, including service on the Alumni Board of Governors.

Major General James D. "Dave" Bryan, U.S. Army (Retired), is the keynote speaker for the other three ceremonies. A Jax State alumnus, Bryan led a distinguished military career, including service as Vice Director of the Defense Information Systems Agency and Commander of the Joint Task Force for Computer Network Defense, helping shape the foundation of modern U.S. cyber operations.

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