Roger Williams University Announces 2026 Honorary Degree Recipients
In a significant announcement from Bristol, Rhode Island, Roger Williams University has revealed its distinguished honorary degree recipients for the 2026 academic year. The university will honor both a prominent alumnus and a respected federal judge during its upcoming commencement ceremonies.
Business Leader to Deliver Commencement Address
Richard "Dick" Sullivan, a 1979 graduate of Roger Williams University and former Executive Chairman and CEO of PGA Tour Superstore, has been selected to deliver the commencement address to the Class of 2026. Sullivan will also receive an honorary degree in recognition of his exceptional career achievements and dedicated service to both business and community.
Sullivan's professional journey represents a remarkable trajectory of leadership across multiple industries. After graduating from RWU, he served as Chief Marketing Officer for The Home Depot during a period of substantial national expansion. He later held the position of Executive Vice President with the NFL's Atlanta Falcons, where he contributed to record-breaking business performance.
His most notable achievement came during his tenure at PGA TOUR Superstore, where Sullivan spearheaded a dramatic nationwide expansion that quadrupled the store count while simultaneously building a robust global e-commerce platform. His leadership earned him recognition as one of Atlanta's Most Admired CEOs.
Federal Judge Honored for Public Service
The RWU School of Law will award an honorary degree to the Honorable Laura E. Montecalvo, Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. This recognition celebrates Judge Montecalvo's distinguished career in law and her substantial contributions to public service through the judicial system.
University Leadership Celebrates Recipients
RWU President Ioannis Miaoulis expressed enthusiasm about Sullivan's selection, stating, "Dick Sullivan exemplifies the spirit of Roger Williams University—entrepreneurial, forward-thinking, and deeply committed to making an impact. His remarkable leadership journey, from our classrooms to the highest levels of business, is an inspiration to our graduates as they prepare to lead in a rapidly changing world."
Provost Margaret Everett added, "Dick's career demonstrates the power of adaptability, vision, and values-driven leadership. We are honored to celebrate his achievements and to have him share his insights with the Class of 2026 at such a pivotal moment in their lives."
Alumnus Maintains Strong University Connection
Throughout his successful career, Sullivan has maintained meaningful connections with his alma mater. His philanthropic contributions include establishing the Dick Sullivan Sports Business Forum classroom in the Gabelli School of Business. This facility, along with Sullivan's ongoing efforts to bring influential speakers and sports scholars to the Sport Management Program, has significantly enhanced student success in RWU's newest academic programs.
Sullivan has also contributed extensively to civic and nonprofit organizations, serving on numerous boards and advisory groups across sports, business, and community development sectors. His return to campus for the 2026 commencement represents both a homecoming and an opportunity to inspire the next generation of leaders.
The dual recognition of Sullivan and Judge Montecalvo underscores Roger Williams University's commitment to honoring excellence across diverse fields—from transformative business leadership to distinguished public service through the judicial system.
