Dr. Ronald S. Rochon and Lynn W. Rochon to be honored with USI honorary Doctor of Law degrees

Dr. Ronald S. Rochon, former USI President, and Mrs. Lynn W. Rochon, former First Lady, are being awarded honorary Doctor of Laws degrees for their 14 years of dedication and service to the University.

Dr. Rochon became the fourth President of the University of Southern Indiana in July 2018, and served until July 2024, which followed eight years as the University's Provost. His leadership significantly transformed USI, securing over $445 million in state funding for capital projects and operations. His strategic vision drove remarkable growth in the Indiana Commission for Higher Education’s performance funding metrics, including overall degree completion, at-risk degree completion, STEM degree completion, student persistence and on-time graduation rates.

A champion for student success, Dr. Rochon led USI’s transition from NCAA Division II to Division I athletics, elevating the University’s profile and competitive spirit. He also implemented the institution’s third Strategic Plan, Accelerating Impact, which prioritizes student achievement, engagement, institutional reputation and financial sustainability. His career has been dedicated to fostering educational excellence, equity and access. As an educator, he taught extensively on the history of American education, culturally responsive teaching and leadership in higher education. His work focused on supporting diverse learners in underserved schools and communities.

During his tenure as provost, Dr. Rochon played a pivotal role in revamping the University Core Curriculum and UNIV 101 seminar course. He also led the approval process for USI’s second doctoral program in educational leadership and worked with faculty to develop new programs for undergraduate, graduate and online learners. His commitment to higher education extended beyond USI, having served on numerous boards, including as past chairs of the Board of Directors for the Association for State Colleges and Universities and the Board of Directors for the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, as well as Board Chair for the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.

While at USI, Mrs. Rochon was a steadfast advocate for student well-being, creating an inclusive and nurturing environment on campus. With warmth and dedication, she mentored and supported students, ensuring they felt heard, valued and empowered. She played a vital role in fostering a culture of belonging at USI, connecting students with resources and championing initiatives that promote respect, inclusion and opportunity.

Before coming to USI, Mrs. Rochon served as Education Program Coordinator at the Community Health Center of Buffalo, where she worked to improve healthcare access and education for underinsured populations. A passionate educator, she volunteered in schools across multiple states and mentored young girls through the YWCA. Her commitment to education extends globally—she and Dr. Rochon support a rural school in Ghana, providing essential resources to underserved students.

Beyond their professional achievements, while at USI, the Rochons were deeply engaged in civic leadership. Dr. Rochon served on the board of WNIN Public Broadcasting, Deaconess Health System and was appointed to a two-year term on Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb’s Workforce Cabinet. Mrs. Rochon was recognized for her work in community advocacy and student mentorship.

Both South-Side Chicago natives, Dr. Rochon earned his bachelor’s degree from Tuskegee University and master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He currently serves as the President of California State University, Fullerton. Mrs. Rochon holds a bachelor’s in marketing from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a master’s in inner-city studies from Northeastern Illinois University.

Of all their accomplishments, they are most proud of their family—son Ayinde and daughter Nia—who inspire their lifelong commitment to education, leadership and service.