JACKSONVILLE, AL — Jacksonville State University awarded an honorary doctorate to country music artist Riley Green during its Spring Commencement ceremony held Thursday, April 30, at Pete Mathews Coliseum.
Green, a Jacksonville native and former Jax State quarterback, received the Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, prior to delivering the keynote address for the 1 p.m. commencement ceremony honoring graduates from the College of Education and Professional Studies. The ceremony was one of five commencement events held over a two-day period at the university.
Now recognized as one of country music’s prominent artists, Green has earned multiple Academy of Country Music honors and produced chart-topping songs including “There Was This Girl,” “I Wish Grandpas Never Died,” and “Half of Me.”
During his address to graduates, Green encouraged students to pursue opportunities with determination and dedication.
“So my advice to the 2026 graduating class is grab the heavy end,” Green said. “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.”
According to the university, the honorary doctorate was awarded in recognition of Green’s accomplishments in the music industry, his continued support of Jacksonville and Jacksonville State University, and his role as an ambassador for the community on a national level.
The hooding ceremony was conducted 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,’” the university stated.
Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth Jr. said Green’s story reflects the values and opportunities students can identify with.
“Riley’s story is one our students can see themselves in,” Killingsworth said. “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.”
In addition to his music career, Green continues to expand into acting and touring while maintaining strong ties to his hometown and frequently reflecting his upbringing and values in his work.
The university also recognized graduates from the College of Arts, Humanities, and Sciences and the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences on Thursday. Friday ceremonies honored graduates from the College of Business and Industry and the College of Health Professions and Wellness.
David Glenn, chief meteorologist at WTVC-TV in Chattanooga and a Jax State alumnus, served as keynote speaker for the College of Arts, Humanities, and Sciences ceremony.
Retired U.S. Army Major General James D. Bryan delivered the keynote address for the remaining three ceremonies. Bryan, also a Jax State alumnus, previously served as Vice Director of the Defense Information Systems Agency and Commander of the Joint Task Force for Computer Network Defense.
