Jeremy C. Patterson Named New Director of Athletics for Rust College

Before joining Rust College, Patterson played an integral role at Lane College, where he guided athletic programs to numerous championships as part of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). He was responsible for implementing athletic policies, ensuring player safety, managing budgets, and providing leadership on compliance and eligibility matters.

 

Patterson's coaching career is equally impressive. In 2023, he served as Assistant Head Coach, Special Teams Coordinator, and Linebacker Coach at Mississippi Valley State, where his unit led the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) in kickoff return yards and ranked among the best nationally in multiple categories. At Lane College, his defensive and special teams units consistently ranked among the best in the country, with several players receiving All-Conference and All-American honors. He was also part of the inaugural National Coaching Academy for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

 

In addition to his coaching success, Patterson is deeply committed to the personal and academic development of student-athletes. He emphasizes excellence in the classroom, community service, and character-building, with active participation in initiatives such as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

 

A proud alumnus of Lane College, Patterson holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and a Master's degree in Higher Education Administration. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Higher Education Administration from Liberty University. His academic and professional accomplishments have earned him national recognition, including being named to the 2022 Football Scoop Watch List/Rising Star.

 

"We are thrilled to have Jeremy Patterson join the Rust College family," said Dr. Robert Dixon, President of Rust College. "His leadership, dedication to student-athletes, and record of success make him the ideal candidate to lead our athletics programs into the future."

 

For more information about Rust College Athletics and the appointment of Jeremy C. Patterson, please contact Rust College at 662-252-8000 or visit rustathletics.com