Rochester Christian University will recognize Dr. Eric W. Peoples, an author, pastor and executive leadership coach, as its featured speaker and present him with the inaugural Distinguished Global Leadership Award at its commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 2, at the Garth Pleasant Arena. 

Peoples is the author of Finishing Strong: A Leader’s Guide to Courageous Living, which aims to help individuals overcome limiting beliefs, apply truth to everyday life, and pursue their calling with confidence. He owns and operates Eric Peoples Enterprises, where he works with business leaders, entrepreneurs and organizations to help them win, focus and finish well.

In addition, Peoples and his wife, Melissa, are the founding pastors of Legacy Church in Farmington, Connecticut, which recently celebrated over 12 years of impact in the community.

Peoples holds a Doctor of Ministry in Organizational Leadership from Western Theological Seminary, a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Biblical Leadership from Southwestern Christian University, along with additional certifications in coaching and leadership development.

Rochester Christian University’s 2026 Commencement will celebrate 204 graduates earning master’s, bachelor’s and associate degrees.