Award-Winning Actor And Virginia State University Alum Rob Morgan To Deliver Fall 2025 Commencement Address

Morgan will return to his alma mater to inspire the next generation of Trojan graduates.

Virginia State University is proud to announce that award-winning actor and VSU alum Rob Morgan will deliver the keynote address at the University’s Fall 2025 Commencement. Morgan has won six awards for his work and was named one of the 25 greatest actors of the century by The New York Times.

A proud Trojan, Morgan is widely recognized for his standout performances in critically acclaimed films, including Mudbound, A24’s The Last Black Man in San Francisco, and Warner Bros.’ Just Mercy. He earned a Spirit Award nomination for Best Male Lead and received a Special Jury Award for his lead role in Bull, which premiered at Cannes.

Morgan has also appeared in HBO’s Winning Time, marking his second collaboration with Adam McKay following Don’t Look Up. His upcoming projects include The Rivals of Amziah King, where he stars opposite Matthew McConaughey, and Petra Volpe’s English-language debut Frank & Louis alongside Kingsley Ben-Adir.

"Rob Morgan has been a tremendous ambassador for Virginia State University, and we are honored to welcome him back home," said VSU President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah. "His commitment to excellence and purpose will inspire our graduates as they pursue their own Greater.”

Fall 2025 Commencement will be held on Saturday, December 13, inside the VSU Multi-Purpose Center. The processional will begin at 8:30 a.m.