The Magazine: Morehead State University 2024 by Morehead State University

A PUBLICATION FOR EAGLE ALUMNI & FRIENDS

PRODUCED BY THE DIVISION OF UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT

2024

Greetings from Morehead State University! We are excited to bring you the second issue of The Magazine. As you flip through these pages, we hope you will feel proud of all that is taking place at your alma mater. Our students are thriving, in large part thanks to the support of the Eagles who came before them. We are honored to have some of the highest university rankings in our 136-year history. The hard work of our faculty and staff, and the dedication of our students, makes Morehead State University a great place to learn. Our new $98 million science and engineering building is still pressing ahead. This state-of-the-art facility will further elevate our already esteemed programs. We’re educating the next generation of scientists, doctors, nurses, engineers and more – and this facility will represent that success. We’re also moving forward with some plans to renovate some of our existing residence halls – and even finalizing plans to construct a new one. We know our students are receiving a quality education and we want their residences to be of that same quality. As proud alumni and friends of MSU, we hope you will continue to spread the word about the great things happening here. A statement of pride from an alum is one of the best recruiting tools available. Please share the developments and alumni success stories you read in this publication with potential Eagles. We would be honored to host you on campus for a visit soon. Though some of the landscape may have changed, MSU is still the same home you know and love. Remember – Once an Eagle, Always an Eagle. We hope to see you soon. Cordially,

Dr. Joseph A. “Jay” Morgan President

MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY THE MAGAZINE

CONTRIBUTING STAFF Publisher •

Rick Hesterberg (Class of 1980), vice president for university advancement

CONTENTS

Communications & Marketing •

Blake Hannon (Class of 2017), publications writer

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Jordan Hardin, social media and communications specialist

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Toni Hobbs (Class of 2002, 2009), director of digital and brand strategy

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Travis Keene (Class of 2004, 2008), digital communications specialist

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David Moore (Class of 2009), digital communication and media manager

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April Hobbs Nutter (Class of 1997, 2005), director of strategic communications

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Rianna Robinson (Class of 2005, 2021), content specialist

CAMPUS UPDATES

From revitalization of campus buildings to exciting research and opportunities for students, see what’s happening at MSU.

Alumni Relations & Development •

Farrah Baldwin (Class of 2001), director of alumni engagement and cultivation

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Allison Caudill (Class of 2005, 2009), executive director of alumni relations and development

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Jessi Scruggs Ferguson (Class of 2011, 2012), director of advancement and alumni communications

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Matthew Nutter (Class of 1996, 2018), advancement records specialist

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Joan Patrick (Class of 1992), customer service assistant

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Mikayla Ray (Class of 2021), alumni relations and event officer

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Allie Rayburn (Class of 2022), coordinator of digital engagement and annual giving

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Kelsey Shields (Class of 2019), MSU Foundation scholarship and stewardship coordinator

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Sherry Surmont (Class of 2018), director of advancement services

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Leslee Toy (Class of 1990, 2003), alumni and donor experience officer

EVOLUTION OF THE EAGLE

Centennial Eagle statue becomes the new campus focal point.

University Advancement •

Sharon Fraley (Class of 1999, 2012), director of finance

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Madonna Hanshaw (Class of 1997), accountant

Athletics •

Kenna Allen Gauche (Class of 2008, 2009), senior associate director of athletics for external affairs and senior woman administrator

CLIMBING HIGHER

Ben Mattingly (Class of 2000) completes all seven major summits. 3

CAMPUS UPDATES

MSU earns national recognition in affordability and quality This year, Morehead State University celebrated being a top-ranked institution for the last 20 years. It once again found itself ranked as a Top 20 (#19) public regional university in the South by U.S. News & World Report. In addition to the Top 20 overall ranking, MSU also rose in several other categories, including Best Value Schools (#28, up 12 spots) and Best Colleges for Veterans (#16, up two spots). It also earned recognition for Best Undergraduate Teaching (#13, up 8 spots), making it the top-ranked public institution in Kentucky and 6th in the South for undergraduate teaching education. In 2023, MSU continued to gain recognition for the diverse types of students it served and how it served them. Colleges of Distinction, a unique guide for college-bound students, once again recognized Morehead State for its continued

commitment to helping undergraduate students realize their potential and attain preparation and experience for their future careers. MSU has been named a 2023-24 College of Distinction, Kentucky College of Distinction, and Public College of Distinction. In addition to gaining recognition in the categories of business, education, nursing, career development, and military support, it was also a College of Distinction in Affordability and, in partnership with Abound, was named a College of Distinction for Adult Students. With MSU’s founding as an institution focused on training Kentucky educators, programs in the Ernst & Sara Lane Volgenau College of Education continue to earn high marks for the impact they are making on students in the field. These rankings include earning an “A” score from the National Council on Teacher Quality for Elementary Reading Instruction and the Ed.D. ranking among top programs by the Princeton Review.

Discover why MSU stands out - check out our complete list of rankings at www.moreheadstate.edu/rankings.

MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY THE MAGAZINE: 2024

MSU social media soars in national rankings Thanks to our proud and dedicated Eagle followers! We couldn’t have done it without you. Morehead State University engages with students, alumni and the community to bring awareness and share the Eagle experience through social media. These efforts have been recognized with a significant uptick in a national university social media ranking. The 2023 Higher Education Social Media Engagement Report published by Rival IQ this past August, ranks MSU at 206 out of 364 ranked schools, up 22 spots since last year. MSU is ranked third among public institutions in the state, ahead of Murray State University, Eastern Kentucky University, Northern Kentucky University, and Western Kentucky University. In addition to being one of the Top 200 (163rd, up 33 spots) on Instagram, MSU’s Facebook

account ranked in the Top 100 (63rd) and jumped up 73 places in just one year. Rival IQ’s 2023 Higher Education Social Media Engagement Report ranked Division 1 and Division 2 schools based on engagement rates and totals and posting frequency across social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly known as Twitter). “Morehead State University engages with students, alumni, and the community to bring awareness and share the Eagle experience through social media,” said Rick Hesterberg (Class of 1980), vice president for university advancement. “These efforts are being recognized nationally, which is a tribute to our creative team in promoting what makes MSU a special place.”

Facebook: @MoreheadStateUniversity

X/Twitter: @moreheadstate

Flickr: @msu1887

Instagram: @moreheadstate

YouTube: @msueaglevideo

LinkedIn: @moreheadstate

MSU remembers President Morris Norfleet (1977-84)

Former MSU President Dr. Morris Norfleet passed away Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023, at the Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital Jean Waddle Care Center at 92. Norfleet was inaugurated as MSU’s eighth president in 1977 and served until 1984. Before serving as president, Norfleet worked for 26 years as an administrator, starting his MSU career as the director of student teaching in 1962 and later becoming the vice president of research and development. During his tenure, he served as a special consultant of corporate relations for the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and as chair of the Jesse Stuart Foundation Board of Directors. Norfleet graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1952 and began teaching in Spiceland, Indiana. He then obtained his Doctor of Philosophy from Purdue University in 1962. Norfleet was a church deacon and Sunday school teacher. He participated in numerous mission trips to Russia, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Djibouti, Brazil, and eastern Kentucky. In 2006, he received the Missionary of the Year award in Kentucky. Morris is survived by his wife of more than 70 years, Loistene Tarter Norfleet; a son, Douglas Lee (Lora Lee) Norfleet of Nancy; a grandson, Brandon Lee Norfleet of Nashville, Tennessee; and a granddaughter, Ashley Elizabeth Norfleet of Louisville.

Right, campus 1983 courtesy of The Raconteur 6

MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY THE MAGAZINE: 2024

DID YOU KNOW ... During Norfleet’s tenure as president, an entity was established that has benefited thousands of students and will continue to do so for generations to come. Organized in 1979, the MSU Foundation is a non-affiliated corporation supporting fundraising efforts and advancing University programs. Through partnership with the University, the Foundation works to serve MSU by providing scholarship support, research and program enhancement, and more. The Foundation has provided nearly $5 million in aid to the University through its initiatives and fundraising campaigns, including approximately $1 million in privately funded Foundation scholarships to 600 students annually. alumni.moreheadstate.edu/foundation

YEAR-IN-REVIEW Celebrating why it’s great to be an Eagle

Stay up-to-date with MSU at moreheadstate.edu/news.

The 2023 Homecoming game pitted the Eagles against the Butler Bulldogs in Jayne Stadium.

Shaela Worsley, a senior from Richmond, and Blake McKibben, a senior from Flemingsburg, were crowned 2023 Homecoming Queen and King.

The Craft Academy for Excellence in Science & Mathematics began the semester in a new facility in the newly renovated Alumni Tower. 8

MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY THE MAGAZINE: 2024

MSU honored nearly 400 graduates at fall commencement. Isaiah Davis (Class of 2023) of Fort Worth, Texas, was the student speaker at the ceremony.

Hundreds of students, alumni, employers and graduate schools attended the fall and spring Career & Internship Fairs.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson visited campus as a McBrayer Lecture Series Speaker, kicking off Astra-Con 2023, an aerospace conference hosted by MSU.

“The Greatest Gala” in April 2023 raised $80,000 to support academic programs.

MSU at Mt. Sterling celebrated its 20th anniversary in September 2023.

Approximately 1,300 first-year students made MSU their home in August 2023.

MSU recognized nearly 800 graduates at the 2023 spring commencement.

ATHLETICS

COMING HOME Alum Kelly Wells named director of athletics

schools. At Mason County, Kelly Wells (Class of he coached the Royals to a 1995) will tell you he 2003 state championship literally grew up on the and helped to develop future campus of Morehead State University of Tennessee University. His mother, standout, Chris Lofton. Doris Wells (Class of 1977, 1986), spent her career From there, he transitioned to on campus, serving as an the college arena – coaching at administrative assistant. Hawaii Pacific before returning His father, Mickey Wells home to eastern Kentucky (Class of 1965, 1967), at the University of Pikeville taught health and physical (UPike). He coached the Bears education. Mickey also was for 13 seasons, leading them the women’s basketball Basketball Eagles Kelly and Shawne to 20-win seasons, a 2011 NAIA coach – becoming the national championship, and winningest coach in became the winningest coach in UPike history. the program’s history, a success that earned In 2018, he became the director of athletics. him a spot in the MSU Athletics Hall of Fame. He led all athletic programs to new heights, earning numerous accolades along the way. Wells became interested in basketball and vividly recalls visiting his dad’s new office When MSU was searching for a new director in the Academic-Athletic Center (AAC) of athletics in 2023, Wells knew this was his overlooking the still dirt-covered floor of chance. While his years in Pikeville were special, the arena. MSU, safe to say, was home. it was always a long-term goal to come back home where it all began. Wells was hired as He attended Rowan County Senior High School, where he helped lead the boys’ basketball program the new athletic director in July of 2023. to its first appearance in the Sweet 16 state “It was a dream come true,” he said. “I had tournament. He continued his basketball career, always wanted to come back home, but the where else? Morehead State. During college, timing and opportunities had never quite worked he met his future wife, fellow athlete Shawne out. I think this time, it was meant to be.” Marcum Wells (Class of 1997, 2008, 2022), a member of the women’s basketball team. On his first day back on campus as athletics director, pulling into the parking lot of the AAC and Though Wells’ playing days ended at college, walking into the building was surreal. Wells’ parents his basketball career was just beginning. He set passed away in 2021, yet he felt surrounded by his sights on coaching and served successful them and the memories they built at MSU. tenures at Marion and Mason County high 10

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“I know they’d be proud, and I wish they were here to see it,” he said. “I see reminders of them everywhere.” Wells said continuing the family legacy is an honor. His focus stepping into the position is to engage with the community – the people, the faces, who represent Morehead. Wells is building a strategic plan to help coaches and students succeed and he’s excited about the future of MSU Athletics. “This place gave me so much and I’m ready to give back.”

Wells tosses the coin at the Eagle football season opener on Aug. 31, 2023.

ATHLETICS

MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY THE MAGAZINE

Stay up-to-date with Eagle Athletics: follow our teams and latest news at msueagles.com.

ATHLETICS YEAR-IN-REVIEW Morehead State University has a long and storied history of athletic national and conference championships. Our proud tradition continues with MSU’s outstanding teams and student-athletes this year. •

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Baseball won the program’s first OVC regularseason championship since 1979. Centerfielder Ryley Preece earned OVC Player of the Year and 2023 OVC Scholar Athlete of the Year. The Arizona Diamondbacks drafted first baseman Jackson Feltner in the eighth round of the MLB Draft. Men’s Basketball advanced to the National Invitation Tournament, where they scored a first-round upset of Clemson. In the 2023 season, Mark Freeman and Drew Thelwell were named Preseason All-OVC, and Freeman was named Preseason Player of the Year. Women’s Basketball headed into the 202324 season with Veronica Charles named First-Team All-OVC and All-Newcomer. Beach Volleyball advanced to the OVC Championship match for the second consecutive season. Sarah Martin was named head coach ahead of the 2024 season.

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In 2023, MSU Cheer’s Co-ed, All-Girl, and Small Co-ed squads all won their divisions. In January 2024 the All-Girl team picked up a title, bringing the total to 54 national titles.

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The MSU Cross-Country programs hosted the OVC Championships and started with the men’s team winning the Queen City Invitational. The teams ended the season by sending 14 runners to the NCAA regionals.

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The MSU Dance team attended the Dance Team Union (DTU) College Classic National Championship and brought home the Champion Award. Football posted a dramatic 24-21 win at Valparaiso when kicker Nathan Hazlett (Class of 2023) made

a game-winning 28-yard field goal with no time left. Quarterback Carter Cravens earned two Pioneer League Offensive Player of the Week awards. •

Men’s Golfer Nolan Piazza was named AllConference Golfer and the team won the Austin Peay Intercollegiate Tournament and the Joe Feaganes Invitational Tournament. The team equaled a 54-hole record.

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Women’s Golf captured its first OVC Championship since 2011 and played in the NCAA Tournament. MacKenzie Neal earned one of six prestigious OVC Scholar-Athlete awards.

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Rifle set the program record for Smallbore Standing (770). Bryce Ward was named as one of only six OVC student-athletes to win the Scholar-Athlete accolade.

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MSU Soccer captured its first OVC Tournament title since 2013. Chris Fox was named the OVC Co-Coach of the Year, and five Eagles were named to all-OVC teams. Kate Larbes earned OVC Tournament MVP. The Eagles made their fourth NCAA Tournament appearance.

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Softball Eagle Emily Williams hit a freshman record 11 home runs and earned First-Team AllOVC. The Eagles made their first appearance in the OVC tournament since 2018.

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Both men’s and women’s track had five athletes named Academic All-District by the College Sports Communicators.

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Volleyball finished at just over .500 in the first season with head coach Kyrsten BeckerMcBride (Class of 2015). Libero Peighton Isley became the ninth player in program history to post a 500+ dig season. 13

ATHLETICS

REDESIGNING THE PLAYING FIELD

In the summer of 2023, MSU Athletics unveiled an exciting project. Thanks to a partnership with Sportscapes Construction, and a generous gift from Andy Prefontaine (Class of 1971), the MSU Football team received a newly redesigned field. The new turf brought new life to Jayne Stadium in time for the 2023 season kick-off. “Our football program is such a huge part of not just athletics, but MSU as a whole,” said Kelly Wells (Class of 1995), director of athletics. “Our team deserved a new playing field – one they could step onto and feel excited and prepared to face their opponents.” The project was extra special thanks to a deep MSU connection. When Dan Hodson (Class of 1992) heard that Morehead State University was looking for a contractor for a refreshed football field, he had to throw his name in the hat. It wasn’t just his history with MSU that made him an ideal candidate. Hodson owns and manages Sportscapes Construction, a company that specializes in the installation of artificial turf and track surfaces. After graduating from MSU, Hodson began working in commercial landscaping. After a move to Texas, he got involved with a civil

MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY THE MAGAZINE

construction company that built and installed synthetic turf fields and running tracks. Due to an economic downturn, the business was eventually sold. Seeing an opportunity, Hodson made the decision to fill the company’s void by creating his own business. “It was a roll of the dice,” said Hodson. “I knew it was either the best time, or the worst time, to start my own construction business when the industry was struggling. But 15 years later, we’re still in business and growing.”

Hodson family supporting Hallie (center) on the field.

Getting the job for the MSU field was an exceptionally proud moment as he’d have the chance to leave a little bit of himself on the campus he loved. Hodson’s work has taken him and his family across the country over the last several years, but Morehead has always felt like home. Hodson met his wife, Heather Hayes Hodson, while at MSU. No matter where their journey has taken them since, they’ve both maintained a passion for Morehead. When their daughter Hallie Hodson (Class of 2020), a trained dancer, began looking at colleges that would allow her to earn a degree while continuing to dance, they visited MSU. Hallie immediately fell in love and the Hodson family’s Eagle legacy continued. In fact, from

immediate to extended family, more than 20 family members have ties to MSU. The Hodsons returned to Morehead often to watch Hallie perform. In the spring of 2020, they decided it was time to stop commuting and make Morehead home once again. Dan continued to travel often for work, but Heather and Hallie put down deeper roots in the community through the opening of their dance studio, Nexus Pointe. Many of the instructors have been MSU dancers and they’ve given their time to instill a passion for dance into their students. “Bringing our family back to Morehead and building our businesses here has been an honor,” said Dan. “MSU gave us all so much and it’s a privilege to be represented here.”

ATHLETICS

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME The purpose of the Morehead State Athletic Hall of Fame is to recognize studentathletes, coaches, staff and special inductees who made significant and outstanding contributions to the traditions and heritage of Eagle Athletics. Each year, a selection committee screens and reviews nominees. In 2023, five inductees were selected. These recipients were recognized as part of Alumni Weekend in February.

Sean Hogan (Class of 1992), Baseball: 1990-1993 Originally from Nashport, Ohio, Hogan was drafted in the 16th round of the MLB Draft by the New York Mets out of high school but chose to continue his career at MSU. He holds the MSU career records for strikeouts with 343, single-game strikeouts with 20, wins with 23, decisions with 41, and complete games with 23. He also ranks second in innings pitched with 298, and games started with 45.

Oscar Jones (Class of 1977), Track and Field: 1973-1977 One of the most accomplished track runners in Morehead State history, Jones came to MSU in 1973 from Charleston, West Virginia. He lettered in track and field and holds the record in the 55-meter dash, 100-meter hurdles, and 120-yard hurdles. Following his student career, he coached the MSU women’s track team in 1977-78 and the men’s track program in 1978-79.

Leslie Schellhaas Litmer (Class of 2014, 2019), Volleyball: 2010-2013 A native of Edgewood, Litmer played from 2010 to 2013, helping the Eagles win four OVC regular-season championships and two OVC Tournament titles, sending the program to its first two NCAA Tournament appearances. She is the only student-athlete in MSU volleyball history to earn OVC Defensive Player of the Year (2013). She was also First-Team All-OVC (20213) and earned six OVC Defensive Player of the Week during her tenure.

Peggy Osborne (Class of 1979), Faculty Athletic Representative Originally from Jamestown, Osborne is an integral part of the Eagle Athletics family. She was the Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) for more than 15 years. She was hired in 1979 and retired as an associate professor of marketing in 2018. As FAR, she helped monitor academic integrity and student-athlete well-being. For her unwavering commitment, she received the OVC Thurston Banks Award in 2014-15 for Distinguished Academic Service.

Amber Riddle (Class of 2013), Softball: 2010-2013 A native of Morehead and one of the most decorated high school softball players in Kentucky history, Riddle is one of the most notable softball players in MSU history. She began her career as the Ohio Valley Conference Freshman of the Year in 2010 and was named All-OVC for three seasons. She is the program’s career home run leader at 36 and ranks first in RBI at 148. She ranks second in extra base hits (61) and total bases (323). Her career batting average is .325, and she posted a career .553 slugging percentage. 16

MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY THE MAGAZINE: 2024

ALUMNI AWARDS The MSU Alumni Association is honored to announce the 2024 class of alumni award recipients. They will be recognized at Homecoming, Oct. 10-12.

Charles (Class of 1970) & Virginia (Class of 1969) Beetz, Alumni Hall of Fame Charles has had a remarkable career in the physics industry, notably for General Motors, for his pioneering work with ultra-high-strength carbon fibers. Virginia was a mathematics and computer science teacher for over 25 years. In 2006, they established Rose Hill Farm Winery in Pendleton County.

Colonel Richard Halbleib (Class of 1974), Alumni Hall of Fame Colonel Halbleib served in the military for more than 43 years, working with the Department of Defense and the U.S. intelligence community. He earned the National Intelligence Reform Medal and the Defense Superior Service Medal. He retired in 2001 and currently serves as the president of Global Watchmen Associates (GWA).

Jason Otto (Class of 1996), Alumni Hall of Fame Otto earned a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center and was admitted to the bar of the state of New York and the U.S. District Courts for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. He then worked for The Swiss Re Group, where he assumed the roles of vice president, legal counsel - dispute resolution and litigation, and later senior vice president. In 2020, he joined EFG Bank, AG, in Zurich, and in 2021 he became global head of litigations and investigations at the bank.

Dr. Cherie Carnes Rebar (Class of 1988), Notable Alumni Award Rebar is a nationally recognized and respected nursing educator. She authored one of the most widely sold nursing textbooks in the United States and Canada and actively contributes to and reviews nationally renowned nursing resources encompassing textbooks, e-learning modules, test banks, and lesson plans.

Andrew Gillette (Class of 2015), Rising Eagle Award Gillette is a leading fundraising and development professional. While working at the West End School in Louisville, he achieved a remarkable milestone by stewarding the largest single gift in the history of the city of Louisville, securing a $20 million award from BrownForman. He now oversees development for Goodwill Industries of Kentucky.

Roger Gillespie (Class of 1996), Eagle Spirit Award A proud graduate of MSU, Gillespie never hesitates to share his Eagle Spirit. He is the undisputed biggest fan of MSU basketball. His passion for MSU basketball developed during the 1997 season and has continued unabated. Gillespie attended every Eagle home basketball game for the last 27 years and attends most away games.

FEATURE

SERVING FUTURE EAGLES

After years in the culinary world, Dr. Annette Graham returns to Morehead State Dr. Annette Graham (Class of 1985) has held impactful positions that blended culinary arts and academia. Most notably, the 2019 MSU Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee was the former dean of the School of Business and Management Studies at The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in New York City. During her career, Graham always remembered the rolling campus and how it helped lay the foundation for her success. Now, as assistant director of admissions, internal operations for MSU’s Office of Enrollment Services, Graham is able to recruit, guide, and encourage the next generation of Eagle students. Graham’s parents served as faculty at Morehead State. Her late father, John Graham (Class of 1965, 1970), served as comptroller before becoming vice president of fiscal services and later an accounting instructor. Her mother, Nancy Graham (Class of 1973, 1980), was a nutrition and hospitality instructor and director of the Cornucopia Room before she and her husband retired from MSU in 2002. Graham was a member of the last graduating class of the Breckinridge Training School in 1982. She developed a knack for hospitality working at the Adron Doran University Center and managing the Brass Eagle restaurant, a historic Morehead staple, on her way to graduating from MSU in 1985 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management. After a conference with her mother in New York, she networked with some of the world’s greatest chefs and decided to pursue a career in the culinary world. She enrolled in CIA, and earned an associate degree in occupational studies, culinary arts, in

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1988. Graham continued her education, earning a master’s degree from Purdue University in 1990 and a Doctor of Philosophy in Hospitality Administration/ Management from Penn State University in 1995. In 2023, Graham left CIA and moved back to Morehead to help her mother care for her ailing father, in return for their sacrifices toward her success. “My parents cared for my daughter Sydney when I accepted the position at the Culinary Institute of America. She lived with them here in Morehead; I flew home every three weeks to visit,” Graham said. “Their support and care of my daughter allowed me to flourish in my professional career. It was time for me to step up and take care of them.” Even though she returned home to support her family, Graham knew she still wanted to be engaged with the academic community. The Office of Enrollment Services at MSU was looking for a new team member and Graham’s experience made her a great fit to manage the MSU Welcome Center. She works closely with prospective students and Eagle Guides, demonstrating the importance of a college degree and introducing families to MSU’s campus. As her daughter, Sydney, continues her education at MSU, Graham sees her current contribution to MSU as a small part of a more significant legacy. “I understand that MSU is core to my family’s success, and in many ways, my family is core to the University’s regional impact and the success of hundreds of alumni,” she said. “It is an honor to share this campus, my home, with prospective students.”

FEATURE

READY FOR BUSINESS Associate Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship Dr. Janet Ratliff (Class of 1991, 1992) has a passion for teaching college students about the world of business and does so by giving them lessons rooted in the real world. “I believe that by actively engaging students in their major and allowing them to experience their skills in action, students will develop confidence in their abilities going forward,” Ratliff said. Ratliff has been a lifelong Eagle, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration from Morehead State in 1991. Her family has deep roots at MSU as well. She met her husband, Dr. Garrick Ratliff (Class of 1991, 2013), at MSU. Garrick is the assistant director for guidance counseling at MSU’s Craft Academy for Excellence in Science & Mathematics, a dual-credit academy for exceptional Kentucky high school students. He works with Craft Academy students to help them 20

MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY THE MAGAZINE: 2024

adjust to college classes and living on campus, and plan for their futures. Their son, Garrison, is a junior double-majoring in business management and finance. After earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 1992, Janet became an instructor of marketing at MSU and later became the director of the Center for Economic Education. In 2008, she earned a Doctor of Leadership in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Kentucky. In 2018, she was named the Elmer & Donna Smith Endowed Chair in Entrepreneurship and director of the Booth Entrepreneurship Center.

Janet earned MSU’s Distinguished Faculty Service Award in 2022, and last year, she was selected for the Leadership Kentucky program. She is also the only representative from higher education to serve on the Kentucky Standards Business and Education Advisory Panel for Financial Literacy.

Pitch Competition. Students pitch their business ideas to an audience of investors, community leaders, and the public. Prize money and business support are given to those students whose businesses demonstrate innovation and the potential to create future jobs for Kentuckians.

She has received several grants from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to support her work, including an $8,000 grant last year for her work with the Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative (ACRI), which aims to provide applied research training to students to support economic development.

Janet’s students have also participated in the IDEA STATE U Competition, the Alltech Innovation Competition, and several other business concept competitions. Students have also worked at area middle and high schools to help students develop business plans for pitch competitions.

To give students an opportunity to apply what they’ve learned, her Business Plan Development class collaborated with Downtown Morehead Inc. to conduct research and develop business plans for retail space that is part of a project to grow Morehead’s downtown. They also created a public relations campaign to raise awareness about the economic impact of shopping locally. “Instead of just creating business plans, students are creating business plans for their college community. Thus, they have a vested interest,” Ratliff explained. “We are also helping provide Downtown Morehead Inc. with real viable business plans that someone may choose to use to help create a real business.” This spirit of collaboration carries over to another activity Janet engages her students in, the Kentucky Business

“I believe it is up to professors to help students make that connection between theory and practice.” Ratliff said teamwork is an integral part of the business world, and teaching her students the value of collaboration is at the heart of her classes. “Learning to work together with others is what it takes in today’s world to succeed,” Ratliff said. “No one person has all the answers; therefore, through collaboration and cooperation, much more can be accomplished. If students gain this valuable skill in college, they will use it the rest of their lives in everything they do.”

Discover how MSU prepares students for success at www.moreheadstate.edu/business.

FEATURE

A CREATIVE LEGACY

Professors Gary and Lisa Mesa-Gaido shape Eagle artists When many people see visual art, they see the finished product. However, art instructors get to see what goes into the finished piece – the artist’s passion, personality, and the progression of becoming a better artist with each new work. Gary and Lisa Mesa-Gaido witness this type of progress regularly. As art professors at Morehead State University, both have distinct artistic abilities and a wealth of professional experience exhibiting their work nationally and internationally. Lisa’s Cuban-American roots frequently inspire her sculpture and textile

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art, while Gary incorporates his travels into his photography, digital art, and digital animation. For over three decades at MSU, they have used their expertise and passion to help generations of Eagle art students tap into their professional potential and realize their artistic vision and voice. Lisa met Gary when the two Pittsburgh natives attended the University of Pittsburgh. They were both studying art and quickly found common interests that led to a commitment to creativity and each other.

After they earned Bachelor of Arts in Art degrees, they continued their education together, earning their Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees from Ohio University (OU). While studying at OU, the MFA program received a call from MSU’s art program looking for recent MFA graduates to do some teaching over the summer. Gary drove to MSU to teach drawing as an adjunct instructor over the summer in 1992, and Lisa later began teaching in the fall.

MSU after being discouraged from pursuing art by those closest to them or having their confidence in their abilities shaken by negativity.

By 1993, Lisa became an artist in residence while Gary continued to teach as an adjunct instructor. When MSU was looking for a new art professor, they established a shared singular position for the couple, where each one would teach with a half-time release to pursue their artwork.

Lisa and Gary realize part of their job is to help students break through barriers to become the artists they could always be.

Gary and Lisa became full-time tenure-track professors. Gary teaches foundation courses, painting, advanced studies, animation, and digital art and was instrumental in creating the digital classroom that helped bring the graphic design program into the digital age. Lisa teaches 3D foundations, co-advises INSCAPE Literary & Visual Arts journal, and oversees the Visual Art Capstone. Both Gary and Lisa have earned some of MSU’s and the Commonwealth’s highest honors for their contributions. Each of them received the University’s Distinguished Creative Productions Award and two Kentucky Arts Council Al Smith Fellowships to recognize and support their art. In every class the two artist-instructors teach, they try to provide a measured mix of critique and encouragement while always relating to their students. “It’s all in the delivery,” Lisa said. “They understand it comes from a place of helping them instead of cutting them down.” Gary and Lisa know that students coming to MSU to pursue an art career do not always have the endorsement of family or the funds to support their creative endeavors. Gary frequently donates canvases, paint, and other tools students need to complete their art. In different situations, a student will come to

“I’ve learned never underestimate a single student.” -LISA MESA-GAIDO

“We are helping to build self-esteem and confidence in people who don’t understand what they already have,” Gary said. “They can say, this is what I can do, and let me show everybody.” The Mesa-Gaidos have helped a number of students unlock their potential and establish successful careers. Gabe Lewis (Class of 2016) is the conservator with VON AMMON Fine Art Conservation, where he assisted in restoring the works of renowned artists like Salvador Dali and Jean-Michel Basquiat. “The professional art world can be just as cruel and unyielding as it is brilliant and amazing. Gary and Lisa played a huge part in preparing me for this. I find now, almost seven years after graduating, that I can still reference skills that I was instructed directly and solely from them,” Lewis said. Lisa and Gary are senior art faculty who feel compelled to keep creating and cultivating students in the department they helped shape. Witnessing and assisting with the progress of each student in their classrooms has given them unexpected purpose and helped to define a large part of their artistic legacy at Morehead State. “I guess what was so surprising to me is how close you get to the students,” Gary said. “It doesn’t matter the student, there is always something you can connect to and make a connection with that student.” 23

MSU remembers Tim Holbrook (1994-2023)

The legacy of Tim Holbrook (Class of 1994, 2001), who was chief photographer for Morehead State University for nearly 30 years, is one that will last for years to come. One only need look through his body of work to know how much Holbrook loved this campus and this community.

Holbrook also worked as a freelance photographer and a sports stringer for the Morehead News. His photographs played an integral role in many award-winning publications over the past several years. Holbrook’s photography was published in state and national magazines and displayed in exhibitions. He was a familiar face to campers at Cave Run Lake, where he spent summers as a campground host. From The Magazine staff, we miss you, Tim.

His beautiful imagery told the story of MSU through years of change, trying times, and triumphs. He made countless connections with faculty, staff, and students. His warm, friendly nature made people feel at ease in front of the camera, and he was able to capture the true essence of his subjects. He was a pleasure to work with and was beloved by his colleagues across campus. Known for his quick smile and humble attitude, Holbrook was a familiar sight at commencement, convocation, and other special events on campus. A lifelong Eagle, Holbrook was a two-time graduate of MSU, earning a bachelor’s degree with honors in studio art in 1994 and a Master of Arts in studio art in 2001. In 1991, he was named the University’s Outstanding Freshman Art Student, and in 1994, he was named the University’s Outstanding Senior Art Student and Outstanding Undergraduate Student. Holbrook passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 19, 2023, at the age of 50. He began his career in what became the Office of Communications and Marketing in 1995. During his years of service, he documented some of MSU’s most historic moments and was an adjunct instructor in what is now the Department of Communications, Media, Art & Design. He conveyed the beauty and culture of campus and documented the lives of generations of Eagles with his artfully composed, candid photography.

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Memorial contributions to the Timothy W. Holbrook Memorial Scholarship fund honoring his legacy may be made at alumni.moreheadstate.edu/timholbrook.

FEATURE

A HEART FOR STUDENTS MSU began as a teacher’s college. Providing quality education to students has always been the core of MSU’s mission, and over the last 136 years as an educational institution, that has never changed. Over the years, numerous proud MSU graduates have received awards and accolades for their work in the classroom. Melissa Jenkins (Class of 2003, 2008) is one such educator who has received recent recognition at an esteemed level for her work. Long before Jenkins became a science teacher at Rowan County Senior High School (RCSHS), she was holding class much differently.   The first class she ever conducted wasn’t in a schoolhouse. It was in her family’s smokehouse in Greenup County, teaching lessons to her stuffed animals as a little girl. Back then, she couldn’t have predicted becoming a fixture at RCSHS for nearly two decades, let alone receiving the honor of being named the Kentucky Education Association (KEA) 2023 Teacher of the Year. One thing Jenkins did figure out at an early age was her calling.  Due to the combination of being close to home and having Eagle connections through her sister Tamara Mulkey (Class of 1999) and Aunt Judy Brown (Class of 1970), she enrolled at MSU as an undecided major. As she began taking various biology courses, she shifted her focus to earning a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences with a secondary teaching endorsement. She also met her husband, Jason Jenkins (Class of 2008), during their Chemistry 112 class.   Jenkins said earning her biological sciences degree was “the most challenging but invigorating program that I’ve been through.” However, supportive biology faculty like the late biology professor Dr. David 26

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Magrane guided Jenkins through many of these moments. MSU assigned Jenkins to RCSHS for her student teaching semester and it left an impression on her the support, warmth, and mentorship of the faculty and staff. She was a full-time substitute teacher at Morgan County High School from 2003 to 2004 and returned to RCSHS as a full-time teacher in 2004. She also earned a Master of Science in Biology from MSU in 2008 and Rank I certification for science grades 8-12 in 2010.

“I think I’m just a teacher at heart ...” Currently, Jenkins teaches classes in biology, anatomy and physiology, and disease pathology (titled “Disease Detectives”). Jenkins said her primary goal as a teacher is to promote inquiry and discovery. She wants to embed a basic understanding of the natural world, how changes in science and research lead to modern advancements and how individual choices can impact the world around them.   Part of what has helped Jenkins make her teaching so immersive and exciting for her students is the relationships she maintains with MSU and professors in the Department of Biology and Chemistry. Jenkins’ students benefit from MSU instructors, who bring their expertise, instruments, and materials to enhance learning.   In addition to receiving assistance from MSU professors, Jenkins has also given her time to MSU programs throughout her teaching career. She was

an educator for the University’s summer Upward Bound program from 2002 to 2005 and was a teacher for the Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics’ Blast OFF! Summer Camp in 2018.   Throughout her 19 years as a teacher, she says the content and how she teaches it has evolved, both based on the overall science and the individual students.   While Jenkins has high expectations for her students, she was not expecting to be named the KEA Teacher of the Year. The award goes to a teacher based on the criteria of professional practice, advocacy for the KEA, community engagement, attention to diversity and exercising leadership in the profession.   “It is an extremely humbling reward. When I think about it, I get teary-eyed every time because I just do a job, but it’s not just a job to me,” Jenkins said. “This job is so hard. You could do it 24 hours a day and still have more to do...but you really have to be passionate and really love what you do.”   Jenkins’ fascination with teaching as a child to imaginary students has grown into a very real and impactful career with an appreciation for and collaboration with MSU. She said while she was honored to receive a prestigious award from the KEA for her teaching efforts, the real reward she gets is watching her students appreciate science, find a passion they never knew they had and exceed her expectations.

Learn more about MSU helps students make a difference at www.moreheadstate.edu/education.

FEATURE

SURVEYING THE FUTURE MSU students get real-world experience and job opportunities for the in-demand field of surveying Students in the construction and civil engineering program can hone their skills and graduate ready for jobs in the surveying profession through a partnership with Curd Surveying and Land Consulting Inc., owned by MSU Instructor Joe Curd.

who manage day-to-day operations, like Dalton Risner (Class of 2018), Jonathan Bowling (Class of 2019) and Nick Stevens (Class of 2021). They each said they owe a lot of their expertise to getting handson experience early in Curd’s classes.

Curd not only knows what it takes to be a licensed surveyor, he knows Kentucky needs more of them. He said Kentucky has only issued approximately 400 surveying licenses since 2016, and the increased land transactions that followed the COVID-19 pandemic meant qualified surveyors were in high demand.

“I actually began my internship (with Curd) my sophomore year, worked a year before I took the surveying class,” Stevens said. “He tries to teach and prepare you for the work you can do. In the classroom, he’s trying to give you the technical and mathematical ways of how to do surveying. In both aspects, he’s just trying to help you learn.”

He teaches many classes for students who want to get their surveying license and need the required 24 credit hours in the discipline. These include classes in surveying principles, construction surveying and route surveying. He also teaches courses in construction management and boundary law, a class crucial to helping surveyors determine locations and land ownership. As much as he teaches concepts in the classroom, Curd knows the best way for students to understand what goes into surveying is to do it. He frequently stages hypothetical scenarios on campus for students in his classes to do surveying, and he also offers students internship opportunities for college credit working at his surveying business in Morehead. In addition to providing internships to students, he frequently hires them. After purchasing space on East Main Street, Curd has alumni 28

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In Curd’s classes, students complete surveys that contribute to concrete results. Curd contacted Kim Oatman, assistant vice president for facilities and operations, in late 2022 after the announcement that MSU received funding for the design and construction of a new science and engineering building. Dr. Ahmad Zargari, dean of the College of Science, said the science and engineering building will house courses ranging from biology, chemistry and physics to robotics engineering, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. It will also offer modern labs and collaborative spaces, along with the latest equipment. The planned date for completion is Fall 2027. “Compared to previous facilities, the new science and engineering building is a significant upgrade with modern infrastructure, enhanced collaboration,

Pictured from left to right is Paul Porter (senior, Owingsville), Isaiah Holbrook (senior, Grayson), Kurt Whitley (Class of 2023), Matthew Dicks (junior, Whitesburg), Curd, Oatman, Jonathan Bowling (Class of 2019), Dalton Risner (Class of 2018) and Damaris Taborda, (Class of 2022). Not Pictured: Kyle Holt (junior, Versailles). advanced technology, sustainability features, improved accessibility, and optimized space,” Zargari said. One of the first steps for this project was preparing a boundary and topographic survey of the site. Curd proposed that seniors in his survey courses provide them at no cost to the University. “He and I both have that goal of, let’s give our students experience in this because it’s right here in front of us,” Curd said. “I proposed the idea to the students, and they loved it and were like, all right, this is real.”

“After evaluating it, MSU decided that this was a great idea, not only for the handson experience that the students would gain but also it would allow the project to get an early start, prior to July of 2023, because no funding was required for this student project,” Oatman said. Curd knows the demand in the job market, the challenging terrain of eastern Kentucky and the unique family legacies that come with the land ownership of its citizens. He wants to do his part in the classroom and the field to turn MSU students into the qualified surveyors the state needs.

Architect’s proposed design for the science and engineering building 29

Pictured, top: Construction on the 12-meter antenna; below, the 21-meter and 12 meter antennas

“There is a tremendous opportunity for our research and our students and potential contracts to provide communications and radiometric data services (for deep space navigation) for - DR. BEN MALPHRUS these programs.”

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12-meter space tracking antenna enhances learning opportunities Morehead State space systems engineering students have even more resources to explore the stars with the installation of the new 12-meter tracking antenna. The NASA Deep Space Network at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) transferred the antenna to MSU last year. It will serve as a satellite tracking station for low Earth orbiting (LEO) satellite mission support and a training facility for space systems engineering, astrophysics, and astronomy students, allowing them to gain experience in space mission operations. Dr. Ben Malphrus, executive director of MSU’s Space Science Center, said the new dish will allow the Space Science Center to take on new aerospace support contracts while ensuring a dish is always available for students. Malphrus said students are playing an integral role in the installation. “We have and will continue to involve dozens of students in the development and commissioning of the 12-meter ground station. It is these kinds of programs that provide relevant hands-on experiences for our engineers in training.” The project will take another 12 to 18 months to complete, and Malphrus said the goal is to have the dish operational in the second quarter of 2025. Morehead State is a NASA Space Grant University. The Space Grant national network includes over 850 affiliates from universities, colleges, industry, museums, science centers, and state and local agencies.

Explore how MSU students connect with this universe and beyond at www.moreheadstate.edu/science.

EVOLUTION OF THE EAGLE

Centennial Eagle sculpture becomes new campus focal point While Morehead State has several iconic landmarks and structures, a new creative campus focal point now truly soars. MSU added the bronze Centennial Eagle to the Adron Doran University Commons area in a special dedication ceremony for students, alumni, and the surrounding community during the 2023 Homecoming weekend this past November. MSU alum Ronald “Ron” Cartee (Class of 1965) and the Cartee family provided a special gift for creating the sculpture recognizing the University’s 100 years as a public institution in Kentucky. MSU commissioned world-renowned artist Sam McKinney (Class of 1973, 1992) to craft a bronze Eagle honoring MSU’s mascot and the school’s commitment to helping students soar higher. “It’s just so rewarding to finally have a piece there,” McKinney said. “It’s going to be there long after I’m gone and hopefully appreciated by new generations.” 32

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Sam McKinney, left, and Ron Cartee

Watch video interviews of the production and installation of the sculpture.

McKinney, a sought-after artist in multiple media, has work displayed across the country and in several parts of the world. He said having a part of his artistic legacy in the place where he realized his creative potential is something special. The sculpture, which weighs 1,800 pounds and has a 12-foot wingspan, went through a multiphase process from conception to completion over a year. Before he began the first sketches, he already knew what he had in mind. “I had to have that type of flight where it’s coming in on its prey,” he said. “I think that’s a dynamic pose, too, because the talons are all stretched out. The head is coming in looking, beamed in on what it’s after. That was the first thing that came to my mind when I was asked. It just came to me automatically. I didn’t have to think about it.” 33

The generosity of the Cartee family made the sculpture possible. Ron also made frequent visits to McKinney’s studio, supporting the creation.

First, McKinney had to build an armature out of steel before applying clay, and the eagle started to take shape. For the feathers, he utilized metal rods for the big feathers and toothpicks and skewers for the smaller ones. The next step included clay sculpture. He divided the model into 11 pieces, applied a two-part liquid rubber over the clay, and then applied plaster over the top creating molds to send to the foundry.

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When the pieces returned from the foundry, McKinney blacksmithed (or "heat and beat," as he calls it) to make them fit. He welded them together, cleaned the welds, and created a tool to help carve striations into each feather.

Eagle legacy

The McKinney/Prince families have a lasting legacy at MSU as alumni. Sam McKinney (Class of 1973), Ingrid Prince McKinney (Class of 1980), and their daughter, Jasarae McKinney (Class of 2021) are proud Eagles. Ingrid retired from MSU in January 2023. Jasarae attends the University of Kentucky Medical School. Her great-grandfather, John Crisp (Class of 1929), her grandmother, Delma Crisp Prince (Class of 1963) and her aunt, Paula Prince (Class of 1972) are also Eagles. Pictured, from left to right are Sam, Ingrid, Jasarae, and Sam’s son, Shane McKinney. 35

FEATURE

EAGLES’ SONG The Wells Family Legacy

Jesse Wells (Class of 2007) lives a double life immersed in music. On one hand, Wells is the traditional music archivist, studio manager, and instructor at Morehead State’s Kentucky Center for Traditional Music (KCTM). On the other hand, he’s a member of singer/songwriter Tyler Childers’ band, The Food Stamps, performing at world-famous venues like the Grand Ole Opry and Madison Square Garden. The band is about to embark on a European tour to promote its latest album, “Rustin’ in the Rain,” released in September 2023. Their previous album, “Can I Take My Hounds to Heaven,” won Album of the Year at the 2023 Americana Music Awards. They are also nominated for five Grammy Awards in 2024, including Best Country Solo Performance, Best Country Song, Best Country Album, Best Americana Performance and Best Music Video. Jesse comes from a long line of musicians; both of his parents, Jamie (Class of 1974, 1983) 36

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and Catherine Wells, are musicians, as are his sisters, Miranda and Carrie (Wells) Carter, his uncles, David and Robbie Wells, his aunt Beth Runyon and his maternal grandmother, Jane Alexander Smart. Jamie said Jesse first took an interest in music around the age of five when he started playing mandolin, and he took an interest in guitar in middle school. “I didn’t really teach Jesse much, to be honest with you. He was almost self-taught,” Jamie said. “But he was always going to gigs with me and used to do the sound system sometimes and sometimes played with us. He grew up immersed in it. We never had to tell him to practice, and he never had formal lessons.” The Wells family not only has a deep tradition of musicianship, it has deep roots at MSU. His parents, his wife Amanda Lynn (Layne) Wells (Class of 1999, 2005), his paternal grandmother, the late Betty Jean Wells (Class of 1960), and his maternal grandmother are

all MSU alumni. David and Robbie Wells are alumni of the Breckinridge Training School.

Stapleton’s band’s bass player and works as an accountant at Vanderbilt University’s hospital.

Jamie earned a degree in English and taught at Johnson Central High School for 25 years. As a musician, he taught fiddle at the Mountain Arts Center in Prestonsburg and has taught “History of Country Music” at KCTM. He and Jesse were music teachers at the Cowan Creek Mountain Music School in Whitesburg. Jamie said he’s grateful for the skills he learned at MSU that allowed him to be a teacher.

“Staying in touch with students is the most important part,” Jesse said. “Just seeing him juggle being able to play professionally and touring on a very large-scale kind of became my inspiration that hey, maybe I can do that too.”

“Morehead (State) gave me that opportunity,” Jamie said. “I loved it, I loved every minute of it. I had great teachers.” Jesse has been a fixture on campus since his time as a student. He was the host of “Bluegrass Sunday,” which became the original incarnation of “Pickin’ Parlor” on Morehead State Public Radio (MSPR). During this time, Jesse said he would receive requests from Arthur Hancock, who would later become his bandmate in The Wooks and who introduced him to Tyler Childers. Jesse was one of the early students at KCTM in 1999-2000 and taught at the center as an undergraduate student. At KCTM, under the mentorship of former faculty member Andy Carlson, he took an interest in the fiddle and dived deeper into traditional mountain music. Jesse first played with Childers in 2013 on the Lexington-based “Red Barn Radio” podcast and said the two had an instant connection. Jesse officially joined Childers’ band shortly after the release of Childers’ second album, “Purgatory” in 2017. He has been a band member ever since, balancing his duties as a performer with his responsibilities at KCTM. While on the road, Jesse teaches and gives lessons online. At first, he said he was a bit daunted by the idea, but another MSU alum, J.T. Cure (Class of 2003), became his example. Cure is Chris

Jesse agrees with his father, saying his time as a student and then as an employee has impacted his entire life trajectory. He met his wife at MSU during a recital. “It’s definitely shaped everything I do,” he said. “It’s a real treat to be able to share all of these experiences and to see our students be able to do similar things to what I’ve been fortunate enough to do. Seeing students get record contracts now and performing around the world and seeing them share how important the music of our region is, and the people and the experiences we all get to have. That’s the most important work we can all do and being able to share all that with our students, it’s a real blessing to be able to do that.” Wells said he’s grateful that MSU has allowed him the flexibility to pursue his dream and added that the University understands what a professional touring musician can give back to students. After the last notes fade, a different conversation begins, and he shares the story of MSU with people all over the world. “Tyler always introduces me as ‘the professor,’ and people tend to come up after the show and ask, ‘Are you really a professor?’ And I say yes, I teach at Morehead State at the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music. And that opens the dialogue everywhere we go, and people are fascinated with the work that’s being done here at Morehead State, the cultural work that’s been neglected for many decades. Being able to shine a positive light on this region is very important right now.”

Learn more about KCTM’s commitment to Appalachian culture and music at www.moreheadstate.edu/kctm. 37

Changing lives from the holler to the stage Tyler Childers and Senora May support eastern Kentucky If you are at all interested in country, traditional, or bluegrass music, there is a good chance you have heard Tyler Childers sometime over the last few years. An eastern Kentucky native, he’s been making a name for himself on the music scene, earning praise, accolades and awards. Despite his success, Childers has never lost sight of his Kentucky roots. In fact, he has focused his attention on ensuring the people of Appalachia are represented and supported. Childers and his wife, accomplished musician Senora May, are building a fund to support civil rights, addiction recovery and higher education in eastern Kentucky. In 2020, spurred by the racial and political unrest in the U.S., Childers and May established the Hickman Holler Appalachian Relief Fund, a nonprofit administered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee that supports three core areas. They focus on civil rights efforts through the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in Louisville, addiction recovery through the Hope in the Hills nonprofit, and higher education scholarship

support through the Hickman Holler Appalachian College Fund. The latter supports scholarship awards at four universities in Kentucky and Ohio – including MSU. “We are honored to work with Senora and Tyler to fulfill their dream of helping students,” said Rondal Richardson, a representative for the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. “Senora and Tyler have the biggest hearts and working with the incredible team at Morehead State to bring their wishes to life has been such a wonderful experience.” Since 2021, MSU students have benefited from their generosity. Recipients are residents of a county within MSU’s service region or the tri-state area and incoming freshmen with a GPA of 3.0 or above. Preference is given to African American students. “MSU is located in the heart of Appalachia,” said Allison Caudill (Class of 2005, 2009), executive director of alumni relations and development. “Many students make their way to MSU from diverse backgrounds. Tyler and Senora are providing support to students from their home region who are perhaps underrepresented.”

2023-24 recipients: Logan Stahl, left, Maysville freshman, majoring in business and accounting. Lauryn Watkins, Floyd County junior, pre-physical therapy major. Scholarship recipients are selected annually, and students can apply online through the MSU Foundation’s scholarship application at www.moreheadstate.edu/scholarships.

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Combs legacy carries across generations It is in the strip of land located between the Cumberland River and Pine Mountain that a new legacy began – the legacy of Combs descendants becoming MSU Eagles. When it came time for the oldest Combs child, Mary Combs Cunningham (Class of 1977), to decide on a college path, she assumed she would follow in her dad, Mason’s, footsteps. He had attended Duquesne in Pennsylvania and majored in pharmacy. Mary had thought she would do the same – until she saw the pharmacy curriculum. In April 1972, she had the chance to travel to Morehead with her mother to attend the Miss Morehead pageant. A family friend, Nancye Chandler (Class of 1972), was participating in the pageant and the Combs family went to show their support. As she sat in the audience, Mary knew – she wanted to do that, too. Miss Morehead and the community piqued her interest in MSU, but she didn’t quite sign her name on the dotted line just yet. Later, she had a chance to make a second visit as they again went to support a family friend – Sharon Grace, who was in the band at Morehead State. While on this visit, she had the chance to meet an MSU legend – Clyde James (Class of 1965) – who she found so welcoming and kind. The second visit sealed the deal. Mary wanted to come to MSU, be a majorette and earn a spot in the Miss Morehead pageant – all things she would accomplish. Mary’s move to MSU led to her earning a bachelor’s degree in clothing and textiles in 1973. Her decision to become an Eagle started what has since become a bit of a family tradition. Two of her brothers would soon follow in her footsteps. John Mason Combs (Class of 1980) and David Lawrence Combs (Class of 1983) also attended, both earning

From left: Mark David Combs, Teresa Ann (Lane) Combs, David Lawrence Combs, Sarah Elizabeth Combs, Mary Combs Cunningham and John Mason Combs Bachelor of Business Administration degrees. David would meet his future wife, Teresa Ann Lane Combs (Class of 1983) at MSU, as well. David and Teresa encouraged their children to continue building upon the Combs legacy of MSU Eagles. Two of their children, Mark David Combs (Class of 2014) and Sarah Elizabeth Combs (Class of 2022) also became proud graduates. The MSU tradition that the Combs family built has always been special. To recognize that legacy, Mary’s husband, Jack Cunningham, decided to surprise her by establishing a scholarship endowment at MSU in honor of her parents. A graduate of The Citadel and a member of The Citadel Brigadier Foundation Board, Jack had seen first-hand the impact privately funded scholarships could make. He felt it was a meaningful way to honor his wife’s pride in MSU and their family connections. The Mason and Rosemary Combs Scholarship Endowment recognizes their commitment to ensuring their children had the opportunity to pursue a college degree – and the MSU legacy that grew from that commitment. The scholarship supports first-year students from Bell County and the surrounding region. “My brothers and I are very proud of our Kentucky heritage and especially our MSU legacy,” Mary said. “My parents worked very hard to ensure my brothers and I received a college education. MSU was the perfect fit for us – and we are proud to be Eagles.” 39

Two families, three generations, three scholarships, multiple graduates For Patricia Dorton Whitaker (Class of 1975, 1993), Morehead State is more than her alma mater. It is a legacy of family and friendship that has led to a lifetime of service. She has been involved as a volunteer and advocate for the University. She was a member of the Alumni Association Board (2002-11) and president from 2008 to 2010. Her affinity to MSU is a family tradition – her great aunt, Ruby Dorton, was the first family member to attend MSU in 1937 and several members of her family are alumni.

“My hope is that our family’s love and support of MSU will continue for generations to come.” - PATRICIA WHITAKER

Her brother, Richard “Dick” Dorton (Class of 1969), found the love of his life, Delores (Dodie) Mullins Dorton (Class of 1958), at MSU. He had dreams of becoming an FBI agent and pursued career opportunities in law enforcement and continued to take classes. Dick earned a degree in social studies and entered the FBI National Academy in 1970. He had a 20-year career with the bureau and received numerous commendations. Their children are also alumni — Rebecca Dorton (Class of 1982) and Richard Dorton (Class of 1989). Upon Dick’s passing, the family established the Richard L. Dorton Scholarship Endowment in his memory to support married students pursuing social science degrees at MSU. Patricia’s late husband, Dr. William “Bill” Whitaker III (Class of 1964), was a graduate of the Breckinridge Training School and graduated from MSU with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and mathematics. He continued his education 40

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at the University of Kentucky, earning an MBA and a Ph.D. in economics and business. He served as the vice president of academic affairs and as a professor and dean in MSU’s (then named) College of Business from 1975 to 1989.

Patricia and Bill Whitaker

Bill’s parents, Hazel Hicks Whitaker (Class of 1940) and William M. Whitaker, Jr. (Class of 1984) were educators. Hazel began her 30-year career in education in Letcher County, and the couple moved to Morehead in 1950 so she could teach at Breckinridge. She later became the director of MSU’s Testing Center and retired in 1977. They always valued their education and supported MSU throughout their lives. They made a financial contribution to the MSU Foundation in 1993 to create the William M. and Hazel H. Whitaker Scholarship Endowment, a fund to support aspiring teachers. Bill wanted to ensure students from eastern Kentucky had opportunities for success. His impact was so profound that a former colleague, Dr. Will McIntosh, former professor of real estate, established a scholarship in his honor in 2018. This gesture touched the Whitakers, who committed to growing the fund to the endowment level. Bill designated that the scholarship support female finance majors. The Whitaker children saw their parents’ love for the University throughout their lives. All five children went on to become Eagles. For over a decade, a Whitaker child walked across the stage at MSU — Will (Class of 1991), Robert (Class of 1991), Jim (Class of 1995), Destinee (Class of 2000) and Brandon (Class of 2003).

An act of kindness never forgotten John Wilson Kirk (Class of 1967, 1969) thrived at Morehead State University in the 1960s. He was enjoying his experience on campus and connecting with fellow students and the community. His life took an unexpected turn when he was involved in a serious automobile accident with two fellow students. Kirk was left with critical injuries while the other two students tragically passed away. After the accident, he faced an extended stay in the hospital. Though the time would seem desolate, there was a bright spot of light that provided him with a little extra motivation. At that time, MSU’s president was the legendary Dr. Adron Doran and First Lady Mignon Doran. Generations of Eagles will tell you that the Dorans were a special couple – elegant but

approachable, firm in their opinions, but exceptionally kind. Kirk experienced this firsthand when the Dorans drove to Lexington to visit him in the hospital. The Dorans made multiple trips to visit him, and their efforts and compassion left a mark that has never faded. Decades later, Kirk is still touched by his memories with the Dorans. After a successful career as a certified public accountant, he was in a position to start giving back to his alma mater and chose to do so in a way that would also honor the Dorans. He established the John Wilson Kirk Scholarship Endowment, dedicating the fund to Dr. and Mrs. Doran. The scholarship is awarded to students who are studying science, mathematics, technology, engineering, or health sciences with an unmet financial need. “Their act of kindness truly demonstrated that at Morehead State, you were more than just a number,” said Kirk. “I’ve never forgotten it.”

Dr. Adron Doran and First Lady Mignon Doran President Dr. Adron Doran and First Lady Mignon Doran served MSU from 1954 to 1977. He was the seventh president of Morehead State.

Dr. Doran’s early educational experience included 15 years of service as a teacher, basketball coach, and high school principal. He was director of the Division of Teacher Education in the Kentucky State Department of Education. Dr. Doran also served four terms as a Kentucky House of Representatives member and was Speaker for one term. First Lady Doran was known for her work with youth. She was a member of the Governor’s Commission on Children and Youth and started many programs for students at MSU. She was also an accomplished pianist and organist who later played for MSU games. The duo’s leadership built the school into a university. During their tenure, the campus experienced historical growth in enrollment and facilities, including the construction of the Mignon Complex of residence halls, and what is now the Adron Doran University Center.

The Ellington Family’s lifelong commitment to education Life in Kentucky in the 1930s was a lot different than it is today and many students attending Morehead State arrived by train or on horses and some arrived on foot, like Lindsay Ellington (Class of 1940, 1953). He and his wife, Hazel, lived nearly 30 miles from campus. They taught in one-room rural schools and farmed on the side. During the summer, he would set out on foot for MSU, traveling to campus on Sunday afternoon and returning home on Friday evening. He graduated in 1940 and earned a master’s degree in 1953. He had a 40-year career in education in Bath and Menifee counties. Lindsay and Hazel’s commitment to education left an impression on their children. Five of the six Ellington children attended MSU: Vivian Ellington Hogge (Class of 1953), R. W. “Ruby” Ellington (Class of 1959), Arye Ellington Dethmers (Class of 1963) and Evelyn Ellington Sallee (Class of 1965). Earl Franklin Ellington attended for two years and then transferred to the University of Kentucky. The eldest son, Lindsay Ellington Jr., had a successful military career, retiring as a chief warrant officer from the U.S. Army, and served with the Federal Aviation Administration. The family’s commitment to education was strong – R.W. served as a coach, teacher, principal, supervisor, and school board member in Bracken and Owen counties. Evelyn was a kindergarten teacher at Mt. Healthy Schools. Vivian began teaching in a oneroom schoolhouse in Morehead and became a professor at Colorado State University. Earl Franklin earned a Ph.D., working at Oregon State University and the University of Nebraska. Arye was the only college graduate who did not go into education. She earned a master’s degree from Purdue University and worked in management in 42

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the consumer products industry. Lindsay and Hazel Ellington Even though her career was not education, her work at S.C. Johnson & Son and her volunteer efforts centered around learning, advocating for women in education and business. She was inducted into the MSU Alumni Association Hall of Fame in 1995 and served on the MSU Foundation Board from 1996 to 2002. When the Ellington parents, Lindsay and Hazel, passed away, Arye and her brother, Earl Franklin, encouraged the family to establish a scholarship to honor their parents’ legacy. In 1995, the children created the Lindsay R. and Hazel R. Ellington Memorial Scholarship Fund. The scholarship supports education students from Bath, Menifee, or Rowan counties. “The Ellington family is honored for the opportunity to provide scholarships to qualifying students from the area where we grew up” said Arye. “We also hope the scholarships we provide will remind recipients that prior generations of MSU graduates believe in them and support their educational journey.” Since its establishment, the Ellington fund has continued to grow with the endowment value soaring to over $260,000. Thanks to the Ellington family’s generosity, more than 100 students have received this scholarship, now valued at $2,000 a year per student, with multiple students selected annually. The Ellington family remains committed to MSU. At their annual family reunion, there’s one common element-a scholarship endowment update. The Ellington family is a testament to how parental commitment to education can be passed down for generations to come.

WHY I GIVE BERNARD “BERNIE” MCKAY (CLASS OF 1991)

Bernard “Bernie” McKay (Class of 1991) is not the only member of his family to attend Morehead State University. In fact, of his nine brothers (yes, nine), five of them went on to earn degrees from MSU, followed by multiple nieces and nephews. All have felt a neverwavering passion for their university, just a short 42 miles from their hometown of Maysville. McKay decided to take his passion for MSU to new heights when he established the McKay Award for Excellence for LGBTQIA+ Scholars. The fund provides a significant scholarship to an incoming student who has demonstrated a commitment to equality for the LGBTQIA+ community. Learn more about McKay and his passion for giving back in such a meaningful way.

WHY GIVE: I established the scholarship as a way to “payback” MSU for being so good to me when I was in college and for setting me on a course to help me achieve my career goals. I want to see students succeed and have equal opportunities. I had already established a planned gift with MSU but decided I wanted to get to be a part of the scholarship process while I was living, as opposed to funding a scholarship upon my death.

WHY SHOULD OTHERS GIVE: My only regret is that I didn’t establish this scholarship sooner. It’s been such a joy to get to see how a student’s life is changed by someone else lending them a hand. The feeling you get from helping others, and doing so through an institution that is so personal to you, is incredibly worth it. Even if you can’t fund a scholarship, every single gift adds up to something that could change a student’s MSU experience.

Are you interested in giving back? Visit alumni.moreheadstate.edu/waystogive to see how you can get started today.

PRESERVING A LEGACY For over 20 years, a dedicated group of African American alumni have gathered to reconnect with one another and reflect on their time at Morehead State. In 2013, this passion rose to a new level. For many African American alumni who attended between the 1970s and 1990s, Jerry Gore (Class of 1971, 1972, 1975) was a powerful presence on campus. Serving in varous roles, he made it his mission to support African American students and do whatever he could to help them graduate from college. When he passed away unexpectedly in 2013, his former students established the Jerry Gore African American Heritage Scholarship Endowment to honor his service and award scholarships to students in financial need. During Homecoming in 2013, the group raised $25,000 to create the fund. Their support hasn’t slowed down since. At each reunion event, group organizers, led by Michael Gray (Class of 1992), ask for contributions to continue growing

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the fund. By 2024, the fund is projected to be valued at over $100,000. “It’s an honor to rally our alumni around a cause that is so personal to so many of us,” said Gray. “For a lot of African American students, they never would have graduated were it not for the support and encouragement of Jerry Gore.” In 2023, Jerry Gore was honored with MSU’s Founders Award for University Service – the highest award given by the University to recognize the commitment and service of employees and volunteers. His former students showed up to celebrate the honor. Peggy Overly (Class of 1981, 1983, 1985) accepted the award in his honor. “You’d be hard pressed to find a group of alumni as passionate ...,” said Allison Caudill (Class of 2005, 2009), executive director of alumni relations and development. “They don’t just show up for each other year after year; they put their commitment into action with their generous support of their scholarship fund.”

Pictured above: Overly (center) with MSU Board of Regents chair Eric Howard (Class of 1985) and MSU President Dr. Jay Morgan.

Creating a legacy Myiah Clemons (Class of 2022) is the diversity and inclusion coordinator at MSU and the manager of the Eagle Diversity Education Center (EDEC). She works to ensure that under-represented minority students feel safe and supported. As a graduate of the Craft Academy for Excellence in Science & Mathematics Class of 2020, she joined the Black Gospel Ensemble, the Black Student Union, Women’s Virtue, and the DREAMS program and served as a Craft Academy ambassador. As an undergraduate MSU student, she remained active in those organizations and was president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. After graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, she is now earning a Master of Business Administration at MSU. She says she owes much of her success to the relationships she formed at EDEC, particularly former assistant director Dr. Cory Clark (Class of 2020). She

also follows in her mother’s footsteps, Cartrec Garrett (Class of 1997). Clemons wants to use her experience to support and mentor students. She hopes to increase the number of students who utilize the center and help diverse student organizations increase their membership. “As a former student, I think I can bring experience that will benefit students. I have been in their same shoes, and I won my battles. I graduated despite not having many graduates in my family. I graduated with honors. I went to graduate school, the first in my family. I started a job right out of college,” Clemons said. “I stand as an example that I looked toward as a child and as a student.”

The Eagle Diversity Education Center (EDEC) is dedicated to making increased diversity and student success part of the MSU story. EDEC develops and sustains an academic, social, and cultural environment that embraces and supports diverse student populations. With a dedicated study and gathering space inside the Adron Doran University Center, students find community with their peers and are given additional tools to carve out their own Eagle legacy.

WHY I SERVE LAURA MEDER (CLASS OF 1993) Laura Meder (Class of 1993) is a proud Eagle. Her connection with MSU led her to serve on the Alumni Association Board of Directors. Learn more about why Laura makes serving a priority.

WHY I VOLUNTEER

I have helped in a variety of capacities. I represented MSU at a local college fair and set up a display table and handed out information to high school students about Morehead. Over the years, I have brought prospective students to Morehead State for college visits. If there is a way to help, I will do my best to assist in any way possible.

WHAT MOTIVATES ME

I reconnected with MSU about 13 years ago. My school district was a part of a program called No Excuse University. The goal was to start talking about college in a fun way from the beginning of a child’s career. My classroom was looking to be adopted by a college, so I wrote letters to Morehead State. MSU adopted my classroom and started sending me pencils, bracelets, and eventually, t-shirts that my students wore every Monday. Next thing I knew, I was asked by Clyde James (Class of 1965) if I would be interested in serving on the Alumni Board. I am now serving my fourth term. I support my alma mater because they have supported me not just when I was in college but as an alum as well.

WHY I SERVE

Serving on the Alumni Board is an absolute privilege. It means that I have the opportunity to give my time and efforts to an organization and institution that gave me an incredible education and many wonderful experiences and opportunities. It means that I get to share information with upcoming and future Eagles. It means that I get to hear about the future of Morehead State University and to share this with anyone who will listen to me. It means that I get to come back to campus and share this with my friends and family. It means that I get to walk on campus and remember the wonderful memories of my time spent at MSU.

MSU Alumni Association Board of Directors

The board is a group of alumni volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to making their alma mater an even better place. Are you interested in serving? Scan the code and apply today!

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MSPR Enhancement Fund provides student opportunities A new fund started last year has provided scholarships for students and enhancements to equipment and programming at Morehead State Public Radio (MSPR), WMKY. Five MSU students were selected to receive the first-ever Morehead State Public Radio (MSPR) Enhancement Fund scholarship. Scholarship recipients were: • Devin Bartley, a junior from Pikeville • Johnathon Burton (Class of 2023), an alum from Hillsboro • Hannah Grace, a senior from Brownsville • Sha’Maurie Mosley, a senior from Uniontown, Pennsylvania • Clay Wallace (Class of 2023), a graduate student from Frankfort The scholarship was launched as part of the MSPR Enhancement Fund. Established by an anonymous donor, the fund’s goal is to provide operational support for the radio station and scholarship support for students who work there as interns and work studies.

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To be eligible for the scholarship, students must pursue a degree in convergent media and maintain a 2.5 or higher GPA. The University Scholarship Committee and MSPR General Manager Paul Hitchcock (Class of 1998) chose the scholarship recipients.

“I congratulate these students on their success and dedication to the mission of Morehead State Public Radio,” Hitchcock said. “Support to the MSPR Enhancement Fund directly supports our student work-studies, providing hands-on opportunities in a professional and educational environment. We value the hard work of our student staff and their commitment to our listeners.” The MSPR Fund will also assist in paying for equipment repairs/upgrades and operational costs and help pay for licensing fees for NPR-produced programming. MSPR serves more than 20 counties throughout eastern Kentucky from the campus of Morehead State University. Listeners can listen to WMKY at 90.3 FM, online, by app or smart speaker (“Play WMKY”) or visit wmky.org.

If you’re interested in establishing your own scholarship or making a planned gift commitment, contact MSU’s Office of Alumni Relations and Development at 606-783-2033, email giving@moreheadstate.edu, or visit alumni.moreheadstate.edu. 47

Similar footsteps, separate paths Adyson and Gavin Rase carry on their parents’ MSU legacy with solid bonds and different directions Jeffrey (Class of 1992, 1999) and Chinnetta Rase (Class of 1992, 1999) came to MSU as students. Jeffrey came from across the river in Wheelersburg, Ohio, and Chinnetta came from Johnson County. They became a couple and ended up on similar paths professionally. The couple got engaged as students, and both earned their bachelor’s and master’s degrees from MSU in education-related fields. Living in Wheelersburg, Chinnetta is a K-3 Title I teacher and technology teacher for the Wheelersburg School District, while Jeffrey is a school counselor in nearby Lucasville, Ohio, and returns to campus regularly as a member of the MSU Alumni Board.

Adyson Rase (Class of 2023) still remembers the fun time she had coming to campus for a college visit as a high school junior with her parents and a friend that included taking a pontoon boat out on Cave Run Lake and an overnight stay.

Adyson enjoyed her education classes and the sisterhood she found as a member of the Chi Omega sorority. The hands-on experience in the classroom she gained at McBrayer Elementary School in Morehead only validated her decision.

Due to the sense of community and her desire to be involved in Greek life, Adyson applied to MSU and was determined to leave with a degree in anything other than education. However, after changing her major twice, she felt a tug in that direction, switching to elementary education – the same major as her mother – her sophomore year.

“My favorite thing is just kind of seeing when they get it,” she said. “The children are so passionate about learning. It’s really nice to see that light bulb kind of go off over their head.”

“I kind of started leaning towards children, and I knew I wanted to help people,” Adyson said. “The more I kept thinking about it, it was...I want to be a teacher. It just kind of hit me one day.”

“I never get tired of the stories, even if they get told over and over and over,” Adyson said, joking. “Your parents know what they’re talking about, even if you don’t want to believe it.”

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Adyson found her calling thanks to MSU. She appreciates her parents’ love for their alma mater and the connection they’ve formed.

That trip that Adyson took as a junior in high school to tour MSU with her parents and friend also had another, younger passenger ... a passenger who was convinced from that point he needed to become an Eagle. “I’ve kind of made up my mind since then,” Gavin Rase said about that trip to campus. “I was kind of like, this is the place for me.” Gavin gained experience that would end up shaping his educational direction at MSU when he took a summer marketing job with Eagle Athletics before he started his first semester. Currently, he works for Senior Associate Director of Athletics Kenna Allen Gauche (Class of 2008, 2009). “Being able to work in that realm, it’s kind of what I attribute to changing my major,” Gavin said, choosing to major in marketing

and minor in social media. “I’ve always loved sports ... being able to keep my fingerprints on it here has been really good.” Gavin said his relationship with his older sister grew and changed when she was an MSU student. “Honestly, being down here has brought us way closer together. Kind of like back when we were really young,” Gavin said. Gavin said getting closer to Adyson and connecting with his parents during frequent visits helped him to appreciate his family’s remarkable legacy at Morehead State. “Honestly, with the amount of times they’ve come down here and my sister living here, this place has become a second home,” Gavin said.

Building the next generation of Eagles The Eagle Legacy Program is an exclusive benefit to MSU alumni for children and grandchildren that connects your future Eagle to your alma mater at any age! The program features birthday cards, milestone age-specific gifts, and special event invitations. As your Eagle gets closer to making their college decision, the Alumni Scholarship provides a great incentive to continue the family tradition! Enroll today at alumni.moreheadstate.edu/legacy. Left: Bryan (Class of 2008) & Lindsay (Class of 2010) Gray and their future Eagles

Calling alumni home For more than 30 years, MSU students have been the voice of the University to alumni across the country. Though the alumni staff meet and talk with hundreds of alumni each year at various events, no single staff member has as many conversations with alumni as the students who work in what is now known as MSU’s Digital Engagement Center. Formerly known as the Call Center, the Digital Engagement Center (fondly referred to as “The DEC”) is a unique employment opportunity for students that builds desirable communication skills and raises critical funding for the University. These students spend their evenings making phone calls, sending text messages, or recording personalized videos for alumni and friends of MSU. They share the exciting updates happening on campus and give alumni and friends the opportunity to pledge their continued pride in MSU with a gift. The students in the DEC are responsible for tens of thousands of dollars in support each year. “The DEC has been such a fun opportunity for me,” said Madison Teegarden, a junior social work major from Maysville. “At first, the job was a

little daunting – calling people I don’t know and encouraging them to give back is scary! But it’s been so rewarding. I’ve had amazing conversations with Eagles, who were in my shoes 10, 20, 30 years ago. Despite our differences, we have a major thing in common, and that’s our love for MSU! Even if someone ultimately doesn’t make a gift, I’ve still made a valuable connection.” The position isn’t only rewarding in terms of seeing the impact a gift can make, but it’s also allowing these students to add desirable skills to their resume. “I know that the work I’m doing is going to be hugely beneficial when I’m searching for a job after graduation,” said Jules Davis, a sophomore legal studies and political science major from Salyersville. “Being able to list on my resume that I can build relationships and have productive conversations is great, in addition to the fundraising experience. I’m also learning how to have difficult conversations – not everyone wants to give and that’s okay. But I’m building communication skills that make a ‘no’ less awkward for myself and the alum on the other end of the line.”

The next time your phone rings – it could be Madison or Jules. They’re the voices of MSU – will you answer the call? 50

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FEATURE

CONTINUING A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE There was a changing of the guard in the veterinary technology (VT) program last summer as the retiring director was honored with a scholarship in his name, and a long-time professor assumed the role. Last year, a scholarship was established to honor retired MSU Professor Dr. Philip Prater, D.V.M. The scholarship provides financial aid for students in the veterinary science program. Donors have contributed approximately $10,000 in funding for the scholarship fund. Prater began his career at MSU in 1998 and served as faculty advisor to pre-veterinary medicine students and the Pre-Vet Club. Prater was surprised with the scholarship announcement at his retirement reception in June. “This is the most humbling honor that any instructor could ever have bestowed on them,” Prater said.

“My hope is that these funds would serve to relieve some of the tremendous debt burden that prevet students incur in their eight-year education.” Filling Prater’s position as veterinary technology program director is Associate Professor Dr. Amy Staton (Class of 2003, 2004, 2013). She joined the veterinary technology team at MSU in the fall of 2008. She earned associate and bachelor’s degrees in veterinary technology and a Doctor of Education from MSU. Staton said the focus of the program has always been student success. “Graduates of this program are in high demand because of the proficiency they gain during their educational career. The MSU VT Program is one of the top in the nation,” she said. “I am privileged to share my passion with others and to make a positive impact on the profession.”

Help future students succeed by supporting this scholarship fund at alumni.moreheadstate.edu/prater.

FEATURE

CLIMBING HIGHER Eagle completes all seven major summits Growing up in Morehead, in the foothills of the Daniel Boone National Forest, Ben Mattingly (Class of 2000) was always into nature, taking advantage of nearby Cave Run Lake and Red River Gorge. His journey from the Appalachian Mountains to the highest mountain peak in the world was a bit unexpected, though. Ben is a graduate of Rowan County Senior High School and grew up spending many hours on MSU’s campus. His dad, Dr. Bruce Mattingly (Class of 1974), was a professor of psychology and his mother, Debbie Stinson (Class of 1974, 1993), was the director of the child development associate (CDA) program. Ben considered being a professor but his interest in biology and chemistry led him toward the medical field. After college, he and his wife, Jenni Bond Mattingly, both pursued medical careers. Jenni studied in MSU’s physician assistant program, a partnership with the University of Kentucky (UK), and Ben enrolled in medical school at UK. During medical school, they had three children, Jared, Adam, and Amber. Raising a family during this time was a challenge and the Mattingly family faced it head-on. Ben realized he loved the fast-paced life of emergency medicine and accepted a residency position practicing emergency medicine in Massachusetts. However, he wanted to travel and proposed moving the family to another country. The Mattinglys set off for New Zealand, where they lived for a year.

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In New Zealand, Ben taught a course on wilderness medicine, combining his interests in the outdoors and his ever-increasing adventure bug. Ben realized a need for emergency medical training in wilderness areas and contemplated starting a wilderness medicine fellowship. As the program grew, they realized this was a bigger opportunity. They established a business called Wild Med Adventures, offering medical education courses in remote locations to prepare medical professionals for emergencies where hospital access is limited. Through this journey, Ben became interested in mountaineering and took his first wilderness medicine fellow to climb Aconcagua – one of the seven major summits of the world. He never set out to continue tackling the seven summits, but he found himself at Carstensz Pyramid – a major summit in Indonesia – and then Mount Vinson in Antarctica. Then, they led a trip to Tanzania and climbed Mount Kilimanjaro followed by Mount Elbrus – the most prominent peak in Russia and Europe. With five summits completed, Ben decided he might as well go for all seven. By this time, the Mattinglys had moved back to Morehead and Ben’s adventures continued with his family in tow. His wife Jenni participated in most of the trips and climbs, and his dad, Bruce (who he convinced to take up mountaineering at age 60), also joined him, summiting four of the seven summits. Their daughter, Amber (now an MSU Eagle), summited Kilimanjaro at 13.

Watch Ben’s interview about his experience!

Summit six was Denali in Alaska – the highest peak in North America – which he climbed with his dad, eldest son Jared, and friend Clayton Camic (Class of 2001). Now, all that remained was Everest. While scaling summits requires months of both physical and mental preparation, Everest requires even more physical strength and mental toughness. In April 2023, 27 people – including Ben, Jenni, Amber, Bruce, and Wild Med participants – began the trek to Everest Base Camp at the bottom of the mountain over three weeks. From there, Ben and Bruce continued the trek but Bruce became ill and had to turn back. Ben pressed toward the summit with just the sherpa. “Everest is dangerous – people die. I would ask myself if this quest was selfish...” Ben said. “But I focused on just the experience. If I had to give up and turn back, I was going to be okay with that. I wasn’t going to push it, but just try to enjoy each step of the experience.” After weeks of climbing, Ben reached the summit on May 17, 2023. Despite a knee injury during his descent, Ben made it safely down over several more days. Ben hopes to help others make these summits, but in a safe and well-managed way. Wild Med has added more Everest treks to their agenda and will return in April 2024. “We love adventure – and we love teaching medicine,” Ben said. “To have a career that allows Jenni and I to do both is amazing.”

GIRLS RULE

District Court Judge De La Guardia’s law career took flight at MSU Jefferson County is the most populous county in Kentucky. With an estimated population of more than 750,000 people, the judicial system can feel massive. No matter how large the sea of people is, though, you are sure to find multiple Eagles. Judge Yvette De La Guardia (Class of 2010) came to MSU from Northern Kentucky. Her family’s roots, however, go far beyond the Bluegrass state. Her mom was born in New York City and her father is from Panama. When it came to college, De La Guardia felt her options were limited. Ultimately, she decided to attend MSU, expecting to eventually transfer after her first year. After arriving, she found an unexpected home and decided against transferring. De La Guardia had many expectations for her college experience—and she said MSU met them. She immersed herself in the MSU community, joining the Chi Omega Fraternity and the Student Government Association. As a first-generation college student, De La Guardia also got involved with MSU’s Student Support Services program. “MSU and the Student Support Services staff never made me feel ashamed of my status as a first-gen student,” she said. “Both gave me more confidence in who I was and helped me be proud of my story and what I was striving to achieve.” An English and philosophy major, De La Guardia had nothing but positive experiences

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with her professors. So, she took it to heart when one of her favorites encouraged her to consider studying law, which she did at the University of Kentucky.

“MSU and the Student Support Services staff never made me feel ashamed of my status as a first-gen student ...” De La Guardia went to law school knowing she wanted to be a juvenile defense attorney. After graduating in 2014, she was a trial attorney in the juvenile division of the Louisville Metro Public Defender’s Office. In 2022, after more than seven years as a trial and appellate attorney, a friend encouraged her to run for a judge’s seat. At first, she felt the prospect of winning an election was unrealistic. Public defenders rarely, if ever, go directly from a public defender role into a judicial seat. De La Guardia had always embraced her Latin heritage. Because there were few Latinx leaders in Jefferson County’s local government, she knew Louisville’s Latin community was ready for representation, and in November 2022, she successfully won her judicial seat. Though there is no doubt her years of hard work and dedication led her to this position, she also credits the journey to Morehead State. “Some might think the opportunities at MSU are limited compared to other schools,” she said. “But that was not my experience. MSU gave me everything I needed to succeed, including the confidence to be the person I am today.”

A VOICE FOR CHANGE

Neal earns scholarship to pursue her passion for media Olyvia Neal (Class of 2023) always appreciated and loved the written word. At Morehead State, she learned how important those words can be for informing, shaping, and changing the world people share. “One thing I have learned and appreciated is that as a member of the world of media, your words have meaning, and your voice has an impact,” Neal said. Neal, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Convergent Media and a Bachelor of Arts in English, is continuing her education in the nation’s capital. She received a competitive scholarship to enroll in the Publishing Master of Professional Studies (MPS) program at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. The Monticello native first came to the Morehead State campus through the Governor’s Scholars Program. She decided to attend MSU and earned acceptance into the George M. Luckey Jr. Academic Honors Program. Neal’s time at MSU led her to pursue degrees in both English and convergent media. “Telling stories through all forms of media is now a huge part of my life,” Neal said, “and I would not have discovered it if it weren’t for both of my majors.”

“The Unorthodox,” MSU’s arts and literary journal, Inscape, and the student newspaper, The Trail Blazer. Through her Undergraduate Research Fellowship, she was an editorial assistant for The Kentucky Philological Review throughout her undergraduate career. Neal said during her internship in Europe in 2022 through education abroad, she was a travel writer and photographer for “Southeast Kentucky Magazine,” documenting her experience through journaling and photojournalism. “It was incredibly difficult and vulnerable for me to write from my own perspective, but through the help of my mentors ... I published pieces that I became proudest of creating,” Neal said.

“I hope to continue to use my voice in a positive way and continue this pursuit.” Neal hopes to become a professional editor and published author with an elevated sense of responsibility and purpose as she pursues her passion. “The stories of others and the current happenings of the world both need and deserve to be told to their communities, and without those courageous enough to go out and tell them, we would be lost,” Neal said.

Neal obtained real-world experience as editorin-chief of the Honors Program’s newsletter,

VIEW FROM THE COURT When DeJuan Marrero (Class of 2017) began his college basketball career, Morehead State wasn’t on his radar. Growing up in Gary, Indiana, Marrero went to DePaul University in Chicago. He thought he had a solid path forward until an ACL injury changed everything. After the injury, his time at DePaul ended, and he moved to Marianna, Florida, to Chipola College, a junior college program, and began exploring his prospects for the next step in his journey. Then MSU Men’s Basketball Coach Sean Woods contacted him and convinced Marrero that MSU would be a good fit where he could develop into a player with pro basketball options. MSU turned out to be exactly what he needed. Marrero found a home and community with the MSU basketball program. When former assistant coach Preston Spradlin was promoted to head coach, the foundation Marrero built only strengthened.

Through the mentorship of Coach Spradlin and then Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Charles Holloway (Class of 2018), Marrero started developing more than just basketball skills. “I credit Preston, Dr. Holloway and others with a lot,” Marrero said. “I further developed my basketball skills, but I also learned discipline and focus; to treat others with respect and grace and not walk in the room thinking I know it all.” During his last year at MSU, Marrero was drafted to play professionally in Puerto Rico. Completing his remaining MSU classes online, he hit the court in the Caribbean, flying back to Kentucky that May to attend the graduation ceremony. For several years, Marrero spent spring and summer playing

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Coach Preston Spradlin, left, and Marrero

in Puerto Rico and winter and fall playing in Europe. And then, COVID-19 happened. At the start of the pandemic, Marrero returned home to Indiana. He reconnected with the Nike-sponsored club basketball team he played for in high school, the Indy Heat Gym Rats, volunteering with their events and tournaments. At one event, he recorded some game footage on his iPhone and a parent asked him for the recording. He recognized there was a niche he could fill.

Marrero began traveling with the club team, doing video coverage, and pitching content to ESPN for potential use. When covering a high school invitational tournament, he connected with the CEO of Paragon Marketing Group, a sports and entertainment company with clients including ESPN and Pepsi. Marrero began working part-time at Paragon, covering high school basketball games, and continuing to share footage with ESPN. In 2022, an opportunity presented itself to work with Paragon full-time and Marrero took his shot. He now oversees ESPN social handles for high school basketball, traveling to tournaments nationwide. His connections and experience inspired him to start his own podcast – The DeJuan Marrero Podcast – where he has conversations with former teammates, coaches, and other influential figures in sports. “I still use the skills I learned at Morehead every single day,” he said. “I encourage any student to give MSU a shot – even if you maybe don’t see a lot of people who look like you or have the same background as you. It can be exactly what you need.”

Fight, Fight, Fight for Morehead!

Stay up-to-date on Eagle athletics at www.msueagles.com. 57

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF SPORT MANAGEMENT The sport management program in the Elmer R. Smith College of Business & Technology is celebrating 20 years since the its inception. In just two short decades, the program has churned out dozens of successful graduates who have gone on to solid careers in the sports industry. Led by faculty members Dr. Steve Chen, Dr. Michael Hypes and Dr. Julia Hypes, the program has received national recognition. The online Master of Arts in Sport Management program was named one of the top 25 online sport management programs in the country in 2021. From careers in basketball to hockey to even NASCAR, graduates of the program continue soaring to new heights.

Winning the Race When Nathan Blum (Class of 2012) came to Morehead State, he knew he had an interest in the sports business, but his primary reason for being at MSU was his spot on the men’s tennis team. He had been recruited to play at other schools, but he was specifically looking for a school that offered a sport management program, to fulfill that other passion. Finding both at MSU was the perfect fit. The sport management program requires all its students to complete an internship that focuses on hands-on experience in the industry. Blum credits that requirement with preparing him to enter the career field after graduation, as an undergraduate internship with the Columbus Crew soccer club enhanced his professional profile. “The sports industry is so very competitive,” he said. “If you don’t come in with internship experience in the industry on your resume, you’re unlikely to land a job. The only way to separate yourself from the competition is to have that experience – and MSU provides so many opportunities for that.” After graduation, Blum got a taste of many different sports arenas – holding roles with professional basketball, baseball, soccer, and 58

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hockey programs. Where he eventually landed may not seem like the most obvious sport, but a sales position with NASCAR motorsports has been his home for the last several years. His accomplishments led to him being named a Rising Eagle Award recipient in 2021 – an award given to graduates of the last 10 years who are demonstrating early career success. He had long maintained connections with the sport management program, and specifically Chen – he regularly spoke to classes and promoted internship opportunities with NASCAR. While back on campus for his award recognition, Chen connected him with a current student, Da’Rell Henry, who was looking for a position. Blum knew MSU produced quality candidates – he had benefitted from that himself – so he connected Da’Rell with an inside sales opportunity at NASCAR. The rest ... well, keep reading.

Life in the Fast Lane After Da’Rell Henry (Class of 2022) graduated from Mason County High School, he enrolled at Simmons College to play basketball. A historically black college and university (HBCU) located in Louisville, Simmons provided the opportunity to play collegiate basketball, but Henry realized they didn’t quite offer the academic programs he was most interested in. His mom had attended MSU, so when he decided to transfer from Simmons, MSU was an obvious choice. He enrolled in the sport management program and immediately built a strong relationship with the faculty. In one of Chen’s classes his sophomore year, the class participated in a call with sport management alum, Nathan Blum, who was enjoying a career at NASCAR. In 2021, Chen invited Henry to join him for a Homecoming event, where he got to meet Blum in person. The meeting ended up resulting in Henry being offered a position in NASCAR’s inside sales program. The opportunity would mean he would ultimately move from Kentucky down to NASCAR’s home base in Daytona Beach, Florida. As a lifelong

Kentucky resident, the move was daunting, but Henry knew he would at least have a friend in Blum. Henry jumped right into the sales program and immediately made a mark. The program is normally a 10-month track to a promotion – but Henry did it in six. He is still with the sales team and hit more than $1 million in ticket revenue in just nine months of a recent fiscal year. You could say he is driving in the fast lane to even greater success. “The sports management program exposed to me a variety of different jobs available in sports,” Henry said. “From sales to game day operations, if you have a strong resume, the pathways for you are endless. For now, I’ve found a strong home at NASCAR, and I credit MSU for that.”

Are you able to offer internships to MSU students? Doing so not only connects multiple generations of Eagles, but provides current students with the work experience to give their resume an edge. Internship opportunities can change the trajectory of a student’s career. If you’re interested in becoming an internship provider, contact Rebecca Wright, coordinator of internships, at ro.wright@moreheadstate.edu.

On the ice and on the stage Shannon Callihan (Class of 2015) is making a name for herself in two quite different arenas. Her primary career has her serving as director of operations for the Nashville Predators – a National Hockey League (NHL) team. During her tenure with the Predators, she has advanced quickly – starting as an office coordinator, then facility operations manager, and now as senior director of operations. Her time at MSU in the sport management program prepared her for those roles. As a student, she kept busy completing multiple on and off-campus internships, completing undergraduate research as a fellow, and serving in MSU’s athletics department. Callihan’s NHL off-season gig also has her star rising. In addition to sports, she has always had an interest in music – minoring in the subject while at MSU. Living and working in the Music City only inspired her further and her musical talents have grown into more than just a hobby. Callihan has established herself as an up-and-coming pop/ soul/R&B singer and songwriter. She released her first album, “One Sided,” in 2021 and began touring during the hockey off-season. In addition to her

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solo endeavors, she is the guitarist for fellow artist, Maggie Rogers – an opportunity that led to her getting the chance to perform at the Glastonbury Festival in England in 2023. Her early career successes led to Callihan being selected as the 2023 recipient of the MSU Alumni Association’s Rising Eagle award – a recognition given to graduates of the last 10 years who are showing early career accomplishments. “I am so glad I did my undergraduate studies in sport management at MSU,” Callihan said. “The program prepared me in so many different areas within the sports industry and set me up for success entering the work field.”

Finding “Fa’a Samoa” (the Samoan way) in Eastern Kentucky For SeSe Aumavae (Class of 2023), family is everything. Growing up in American Samoa, a United States territory located in the South Pacific Ocean, his culture is built around the concept of working as one family unit. The process is built around core principles of respect, pride, cohesion and honoring one’s family. This upbringing primed Aumavae for a team sport.

of the prep work that happened ahead of time to get to game time – not just in football, but any sport.”

Though geographical distance prevented his family from attending many of his games, two sisters were able to make the trip for his senior day in Fall 2022 - and they did not show up empty-handed. The Samoan culture includes everyone in a family celebration – and they demonstrated that by After playing football for presenting all the seniors with most of his life, Aumavae Aumavae, left, with Allenhandmade leis. They included took to the field at a junior Gauche traditional leis made with college in California, relatively flowers, but others were a bit more unexpected, closer to his home in the Polynesian Islands. featuring snacks like chips and candy bars. In searching for his next steps after his stint in junior college, Aumavae connected with Andrew The leis weren’t the only way they included Stroebel, an assistant football coach at MSU. Aumavae’s teammates in the celebration. When Though eastern Kentucky was an unexpected one senior did not have any family available destination, a visit to MSU during the winter of to make the trip to stand with him on senior 2019 sealed the deal and he had committed day, one of Aumavae’s sisters stood at his before he even boarded the plane back home. side. Everyone is family and no one is alone. Moving from the islands to the Appalachian Several months later when it was Aumavae’s time Mountains in January 2020 took a while to adjust to walk across the stage at commencement – socially and culturally. The pandemic didn’t help. as the first grandchild in his family to graduate from college – he was not without family there “When the coronavirus pandemic began, it was to cheer him on. Over a dozen members of his rough,” he said. “But immediately, my coaches family made the journey from American Samoa, and teammates made it feel like home.” including his grandfather, Chief Kanape, who serves as not only the leader of their family, Though Morehead may seem nothing like his but also the leader of SeSe’s home village. tropical home, Aumavae insists the family atmosphere in eastern Kentucky is similar. Though he has made his way back As a student, he completed an athletics home to the islands, Aumavae still finds department internship. Through the guidance the mountains calling to him. of his internship supervisor, Kenna Allen Gauche (Class of 2008, 2009), he deepened “I miss it,” he said. “Morehead is in my blood his connections to MSU by learning about now. To any potential student who doesn’t the athletics work behind the scenes. think MSU could be a fit for them – I would say, ‘If a kid from the islands can come to “I was used to showing up on game day and MSU and be successful, you can, too.’” stepping on the field,” he said. “I had no idea all 61

EDUCATION MAKES THE SKY THE LIMIT If anyone ever told a young Dr. Wilma “Willi” Walker (Class of 1956) that the sky was the limit, she took it literally.

ground and flight class. A minor was added in 1984 and a bachelor’s degree in 1991, the only bachelor’s degree in aviation offered in Kentucky at the time.

A native of Carter County, Walker was raised to reach for the stars. Her father, Harry E. Walker, graduated from Morehead Normal School in the 1920s. Her mother, Ola T. Walker, graduated in 1954, and her brother, James G. Walker, graduated in 1955.

At EKU, Walker served in two areas: head of the Aviation Program (1983-2000) and chair of the Geography Department (1986-2000). She retired in 2000 and remains active in the aviation community and several philanthropic organizations. She also served as president of the Kentucky Aviation Administration and is a charter member of the Kentucky Aviation Museum. Walker was inducted into the Kentucky Aviation Hall of Fame in 2021.

Walker majored in commerce and geography and earned junior and senior high school teaching credentials at MSU. She completed much of her student teaching in mathematics and traveled to Michigan and California, and taught children of U.S. Air Force personnel at military bases in Europe and North Africa. Other than her uncles, who served in World War II, she was the first person in her family to travel abroad. After these adventures, she returned to Kentucky and earned master’s and doctoral degrees in geography at the University of Kentucky. In 1973, she became an assistant professor of geography at Eastern Kentucky University and in 1981 was tapped to research and develop an academic aviation program. The program launched in 1983 with a 62

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Upon retirement, she also became engaged with the MSU Alumni Association and MSU Foundation serving on both boards. In 2008, she established the Walker Family Endowment in honor of her family. The scholarship endowment is now valued at over $100,000 and Walker has committed a planned gift estimated to grow the fund to nearly $1 million dollars. The scholarship supports graduates of West Carter High School who have a 3.0 GPA and is renewable throughout the student’s four-year education at MSU.

YOUR LEGACY. THEIR FUTURE. For more than 135 years, Morehead State has offered opportunities to thousands of Eagles. We invite you to consider the impact you can have on future students. Whether it’s increasing your annual gift or exploring a planned gift commitment, you will make a difference for the next generation.

Are you interested in learning more about planned giving? No matter your interests, a planned gift through your estate can leave a lasting impact that supports a cause or program that is meaningful to you.

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Refer a prospective Eagle to MSU! As a graduate or friend of MSU, you know firsthand the amazing experiences students have as part of the Eagle family. If you know a high school student who could be a great fit for MSU, let us know! By referring an Eagle, you’ll receive a free MSU T-shirt and the referred student will have a chance to receive a $1,000 referral scholarship, awarded in your name.

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Show your Eagle pride everywhere you go and support Morehead State students with an MSU license plate.

Apply for an MSU license plate at your local county clerk's office. You can personalize it, too, for an additional fee. $10 of your registration and renewal fee goes to the general scholarship fund at MSU. 64

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UPCOMING EVENTS March 6-9: Ohio Valley Conference Basketball Tournament Evansville, IN March 20: Cincinnati-Area Young Alumni Event, Hoppin’ Vines April 5: Chi Omega 55th Anniversary Celebration, MSU Campus April 27: Annual Spring Gala, ADUC, MSU Campus June 22: Alumni Day at the Cincinnati Reds September 6-7: MSU Family Weekend September 14: MSU Family & Friends Event at the Pumpkin Patch September 20: Lambda Chi Alpha Reunion Weekend, MSU Campus October 10-12: Homecoming, MSU Campus October 29: Beaker’s Boo Bash (Eagle Legacy event), ADUC, MSU Campus Dec. 3: Holiday Carnival (Eagle Legacy event), ADUC, MSU Campus

Get involved! Learn more about these and other events at alumni.moreheadstate.edu. 65

EVERY BRICK HAS A STORY ... share yours! Leave your legacy and commemorate those special moments with a personalized brick displayed in MSU Alumni Association’s Legacy Plaza. Found at the center of campus at the Adron Doran University Center (ADUC), the brick walkway features alumni and Greek alumni bricks.

Bricks make great gifts! Purchasing a brick as a gift is a meaningful way to honor

someone’s time at MSU. You may request a commemorative gift certificate by emailing alumni@moreheadstate.edu. Bricks can be ordered with a tax-deductible gift of $200 to support scholarships. Bricks are installed each fall. Orders placed after June 30, 2024, will be installed in Fall 2025.

MARCH 28-29

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I GIVE. YOU GIVE. WE GIVE.

HOMECOMING 2024 THURSDAY, OCT. 10

SATURDAY, OCT. 12

• Young Alumni event

• Tailgate Deck hosted by Alumni Association

• Homecoming Parade

• Breakfast with Beaker • Eagle Football

FRIDAY, OCT. 11 • Memorial Brick Ceremony

• Excelling Eagles Luncheon

For a complete schedule of events, please visit

ALUMNI.MOREHEADSTATE.EDU/HOMECOMING.

• Homecoming Kickoff Reception • Alumni Awards Ceremony To register to attend Homecoming 2024 as a 50th Reunion celebrant, contact the Alumni Association at 606-783-2033, 1-800-783-ALUM or events@moreheadstate.edu. Advance registration is required. 67

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WWW.MOREHEADSTATE.EDU/VISIT Morehead State University is committed to providing equal educational opportunities to all persons regardless of race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disabled veterans, recently separated veterans, other protected veterans, and armed forces service medal veterans, or disability in its educational programs, services, activities, employment policies, and admission of students to any program of study. In this regard the University conforms to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. This includes: Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Executive Orders 11246 and 11375, Equal Pay Act of 1963, Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and Kentucky Revised Statutes 207.130 to 207.240; Chapter 344 and other applicable statutes. Vocational educational programs at Morehead State University supported by federal funds include industrial education, vocational agriculture, business education, and the associate degree program in nursing. Any inquiries should be addressed to: Affirmative Action Officer, Morehead State University, 301 Howell-McDowell Administration Building, Morehead, KY 40351, 606-783-2097.

The Magazine: Morehead State University 2024

Articles inside

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF SPORT MANAGEMENT

EDUCATION MAKES THE SKY THE LIMIT

Finding “Fa’a Samoa” (the Samoan way) in Eastern Kentucky

On the ice and on the stage

Life in the Fast Lane

VIEW FROM THE COURT

A VOICE FOR CHANGE

GIRLS RULE

CLIMBING HIGHER

CONTINUING A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

Similar footsteps, separate paths

MSPR Enhancement Fund provides student opportunities

WHY I SERVE

Creating a legacy

PRESERVING A LEGACY

The Ellington Family’s lifelong commitment to education

An act of kindness never forgotten

Combs legacy carries across generations

Changing lives from the holler to the stage

EAGLES’ SONG

EVOLUTION OF THE EAGLE

12-meter space tracking antenna enhances learning opportunities

SURVEYING THE FUTURE

A HEART FOR STUDENTS

MSU remembers Tim Holbrook (1994-2023)

A CREATIVE LEGACY

READY FOR BUSINESS

SERVING FUTURE EAGLES

ALUMNI AWARDS

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME ATHLETICS

REDESIGNING THE PLAYING FIELD

ATHLETICS YEAR-IN-REVIEW

COMING HOME

MSU remembers President Morris Norfleet (1977-84)

MSU social media soars in national rankings

MSU earns national recognition in affordability and quality

CONTRIBUTING STAFF

Greetings from Morehead State University!