Blue & Gold, Spring 2024

Racing Forward

A completed Curris Center renovation and groundbreaking for the new School of Nursing and Health Professions building lead the way

Murray State University is governed by the Board of Regents

Chair – Leon Owens, ’14

Vice Chair – Virginia Gray

Dr. Robert (Robbie) Graham Fitch, ’24

Ellie McGowan

Dr. David Meinschein, ’94, ’17

G.L. Ovey, Jr.

Dr. Matthew Price, ’97

Emily Roark

Dr. Melony Shemberger, ’04

Tom Waldrop

Dr. J. David Wilson

Murray State University President

Dr. Robert L (Bob) Jackson, ’85

Executive Director of Marketing and Communication

Shawn Touney

Blue & Gold Magazine Staff

Charley Allen-Dunn, ’03, ’21

Dr. Tina Bernot, ’14, ’21

Christian Barnes, ’18, ’19

Angela Claxton, ’09, ’12

Jennifer Cline, ’97

David Eaton

Ellie Krouse

Carrie McGinnis, ’20

Jeremy McKeel, ’98, ’02

Brittney McWaters

Rebecca Mertins

Dani Ray, ’15

Melissa Shown, ’93

Brandon Story, ’16

Shawn Touney

Tobie Tubbs, ’96, ’08

Clay Wagoner, ’23

Dave Winder, ’87

Aviva Yasgur

Comments and Suggestions

msu.pr@murraystate.edu

Office of Alumni Relations

Carrie McGinnis, ’20, director 270-809-5600 or 1-800-758-8510 msu.raceralumni@murraystate.edu

Office of Development

Dr. Tina Bernot, ’14, ’21, executive director 270-809-3001 or 877-282-0033 msu.giving@murraystate.edu

Murray State University Foundation

Dr. David Durr, president 270-809-6912 ddurr@murraystate.edu

About

Since 1922, Murray State University has provided a collaborative, opportunity-rich living and learning community that fosters personal growth and professional success through a high-quality college experience. Students receive support from inspiring faculty and staff and will join a distinctive campus community — the Racer Family. With nearly 10,000 students, Murray State prepares the next generation of leaders to join 80,000 successful alumni who make a difference in their community, across the country and around the world. We are Racers. The University’s main campus is located in Murray, Kentucky, and includes five regional campuses in Ft. Campbell, Henderson, Hopkinsville, Madisonville and Paducah.

Postmaster

The Murray State University Blue & Gold Magazine is published twice per year at Murray State University.

Please send address changes to the Office of Alumni Relations at 100 Easley Alumni Center, Murray, Kentucky, 42071, or via email to msu.raceralumni@murraystate.edu.

Dear Alumni and Friends:

Spring is always an exciting time on the Murray State University campus. Flowers and foliage begin to become more visible, outdoor activities and programs involving our students begin to occur, and we prepare to celebrate our newest Racer alumni during Commencement. During this time, we also see many of our alumni return home to “The Finest Place We Know.” Please be sure to visit the Murray State campus in the weeks and months to come! Also, consider referring a friend or family member you may know by completing a short form at murraystate.edu/referaracer as we offer excellent, nationally-recognized academic programs for undergraduate, graduate and transfer students.

In this edition of the Blue & Gold, we are pleased to highlight several significant and much needed updates that have been completed while others are still being undertaken. This work includes renovations to the Curris Center which are now fully completed. This multi-million dollar project has enhanced the Murray State student center — the hub of campus — and will benefit not only our campus but also the broader community. A multitude of projects are continually underway on campus or are in the design and planning stages. This past December the University hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for our new School of Nursing and Health Professions — a state-of-the-art building that will help Murray State faculty and professional staff develop the next generation of healthcare providers to serve our region and beyond.

Please be sure to learn more about our Student Regent, Ellie McGowan, as well as our new Head Football Coach Jody Wright. Regent McGowan continues to do a fantastic job for the entire student body in her leadership roles as Student Government Association President and Student Regent on the Murray State University Board of Regents. Coach Wright brings to Murray State a tremendous coaching background at both the collegiate and professional ranks.

We are proud of our Greek organizations and you will read more in this edition of the Blue & Gold about their continued success academically and in their numerous community service initiatives. Our Greek community is more than 1,000 members strong, with a mission of promoting an atmosphere where individuals can excel in leadership, scholarship, service, philanthropy and personal growth.

This was a very busy Legislative Session in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The state biennium budget includes funding and support for Murray State University, including a record amount of capital projects funding toward a new $60 million Veterinary Sciences building, a $38 million learning commons with a housing component and $10 million for our statewide program of distinction in Cybersecurity and Network Management, and $47 million in asset preservation and campus improvement funding. These major projects are in addition to a new $45.5 million School of Nursing and Health Professions building for which construction will begin in the coming months. I am greatly appreciative to all of our legislators, some of whom are Racer alumni, for their unwavering support of our University.

Finally, be sure to save the dates and make plans to join us for Family Weekend (Sept. 13-15) and Homecoming (Oct. 18-20). Both events present great opportunities to visit campus, reconnect with good friends and reminisce about your time as a Murray State student.

Thank you for your support, passion and enthusiasm for Murray State University. Go Racers!

Sincerely, Dr. Robert L (Bob) Jackson, ’85 President

Nathan B. Stubblefield Distinguished Lecture as part of the Security Matters Conference - April 25, 2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2 Racer Report

Catch up on some of the latest news and accomplishments at Murray State University.

6 Welcome to the new Curris Center!

A series of renovations has modernized Murray State’s student center to benefit the campus and greater community.

8 Q&A - Head Football Coach Jody Wright

Get to know more about new football coach Jody Wright, who is regarded as one of the top recruiters and talent evaluators in the nation with an extensive coaching pedigree.

10 Be Bold: Forever Blue & Gold Campaign Update

Murray State’s Be Bold: Forever Blue & Gold Centennial Campaign has reached an unprecedented level of total gifts and new documented commitments, making it the most successful campaign in the history of the University.

12 Murray State’s Program of Distinction: Cybersecurity and Network Management

A statewide program of distinction for more than 25 years, Murray State’s Cybersecurity and Network Management program continues to be at the forefront of an in-demand industry.

14 Getting to know Student Government Association President and Student Regent Ellie McGowan

No two days are the same for Ellie McGowan, who will graduate this spring and leave a lasting impact as a student leader on campus.

16 Greek Life at Murray State Greek Life includes more than 1,000 Racers who grow and make a difference through leadership, scholarships, service, philanthropy and social advancement.

18 A trip of a lifetime

A group of first generation students recently enjoyed an unforgettable education abroad trip to London.

19 Alumni News and Class Notes

Discover recent news about Racer alumni across the globe. pictured on the cover: Renovated Curris Center, 2nd floor –the area previously known as the “Rocking Chair Lounge.”

New building groundbreaking and record Bachelor of Science in Nursing enrollment highlight School of Nursing and Health Professions

The Murray State University campus and broader community participated in a special groundbreaking event for the University’s new School of Nursing and Health Professions building on Dec. 8, 2023.

The building will offer Murray State students expanded opportunities such as laboratories, simulation areas, larger classrooms and more study and collaborative spaces.

With the field of healthcare growing and seeing more demand, the new facility will help Murray State continue to meet the needs in the region for healthcare professionals.

In 2023, the Kentucky General Assembly approved $45.5 million in funding for the construction of the building, which is expected to open in January 2026.

“Today’s groundbreaking for Murray State University’s new School of Nursing and Health Professions building is a tremendous moment for our institution, the west Kentucky region, the Commonwealth and beyond,” said Murray State President Dr. Bob Jackson. “We are very grateful to all of our legislators for their support as this initiative becomes a reality through the construction of this beautiful state-of-theart facility. Through our excellent faculty and staff in the School of Nursing and Health Professions, we are continuing to prepare our students well as the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

Murray State University Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Professions Dr. Dina Byers shared that the new building “will

be a place for collaboration and innovation.”

“We will provide healthcare education that is interdisciplinary and collaborative by using state-of-the-art technology and creative instruction,” said Byers. “Graduates from these programs will have the knowledge and skills to provide care to complex patients in a variety of settings. Our graduates will be well-equipped to help meet the healthcare workforce needs of western Kentucky and beyond. The new space will allow the School of Nursing and Health Professions to expand and develop new healthcare programs.”

Murray State’s School of Nursing and Health Professions recently admitted 46 students to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, the largest in program history.

The school admitted every qualified applicant who met admission criteria, according to Byers.

“We are trying to meet the workforce needs by admitting more students,” said Byers. “The current instability of the nursing workforce reflects the pandemic’s toll on nurses and nursing education. We have a responsibility to serve our communities and regions by recruiting, retaining and graduating high-quality nurses. The admission of these students demonstrates that Murray State University is committed to assisting in helping to reduce the nursing shortage.”

Visit murraystate.edu/nursing to learn more.

Dr. Rebecca Williams, associate professor of art and design and acting chair in the Department of Art and Design at Murray State University, was awarded the 2023 Kentucky Art Educators Association (KyAEA) Higher Education Art Educator of the Year Award.

Williams, who was nominated by two colleagues, was presented the award from KyAEA during its annual conference in November 2023. The award highlights the excellence and distinction of art professionals in their area of expertise in Kentucky. KyAEA members, associates and community members can nominate candidates each year that they feel are most deserving of the awards KyAEA sponsors. Nominations are then reviewed and awardees are selected by the KyAEA Conference Awards Committee.

During the award presentation, Co-Chair of KyAEA Higher Education and Preservice Divisions Azucena Trejo Williams said that Williams is “wonderful and generous with her students,” and that “her students are always shining and always saying great things about her and how she’s supportive and encouraging in the studio and also in presentation and research.”

Dr. Rebecca Williams

Dr. Rebecca Williams wins Kentucky Art Educators Association Higher Education Art Educator of the Year

Murray State University receives award for marketing campaign highlighting centennial year

Murray State University was recognized by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) as an award winner for its marketing campaign highlighting the University’s centennial year in 2022.

The CASE District III award, which encompasses a nine-state region in the southeast, noted Murray State’s marketing communications initiatives within its University Advancement division as a collaborative effort engaging both the campus and greater community with generating excitement and involvement for the milestone 100th year.

Melissa Shown, graphic design manager in the O ffice of Branding, Marketing and Communication, created a branded centennial logo that was widely used as the primary visual identifier across print and digital applications, ranging from campus light pole banners to novelty items and social media graphics to letterhead. The centennial logo features a shield that is visible outside Pogue Library, one of the University’s most beautiful campus buildings that dates back to the first part of the 20th century. The rays, which protrude from the shield, help signify the forward growth outward as Murray State has entered its second century

to serve future generations of students.

Numerous tactics were executed to share Murray State’s story regionally and beyond, while strategic collaborations fostered new relationships and strengthened existing relationships with multiple audiences.

To engage with the campus community, a web-based centennial marketing toolkit was created with various downloadable assets for faculty, staff and students including centennial logo files, messaging, social media graphics, centennial branded phone wallpapers, Zoom backgrounds, Powerpoint templates and more.

Marketing the centennial to alumni, friends and supporters of the institution was vitally important. The centennial year led the University to its highest fundraising total over a four-year time period through the generosity of many supporters who invested in Murray State in 2022. The University’s current Be Bold: Forever Blue & Gold Centennial Campaign is seeing record-breaking generosity from alumni, friends and supporters in its goal of raising $100 million to benefit student support and success, academic excellence, strategic modernization of campus facilities,

and strengthening the long-standing championship tradition of Racer Athletics.

During the centennial year, the office of alumni relations increased its lifetime alumni association memberships and single memberships from the previous year. A centennial-inspired Racer Alumni Podcast was created as a new engagement tool.

A targeted public relations strategy highlighting the centennial year throughout 2022 contributed to a 22% growth in earned media coverage from the previous year. The average user time on the University’s centennial web page, murraystate.edu/ centennial performed well above the industry standard.

The successful results and impact of the marketing campaign led to an increased institutional awareness of Murray State and its 100-year history, an increase in areas of private giving, alumni engagement and student enrollment, and excitement among the campus body in addition to other key metrics to propel Murray State into its second century.

Jeanie Morgan retiring after more than four decades at Murray State

Regarded as one of the most passionate and student-centered staff members at Murray State, Jeanie Morgan will be retiring at the end of the spring semester and leaves a lasting legacy of service to countless Racers.

Said Morgan, “It seems like yesterday that I walked into the Housing Office in Hart Hall and started the most glorious

experience of working for the finest place we know. People always told me I would know when and I know. After 47 years and 9 months I have decided to retire. I have had the perfect job, but I wouldn’t call it a job. I call it an opportunity; the joy of working with students, staff and faculty.

I have enjoyed my years at Murray State University and the many changes to campus. My career began in 1976 in the Murray State Housing Department in Hart Hall. Then the Housing Office moved to the yellow brick house (that was my home as a child, that was strange!) where Clark College currently is now. In 1984, I began the awesome experience of working in Student Activities in the new Curris Center. In this role, I had the privilege of meeting world leaders and famous entertainers. I

served under nine Murray State University presidents, three vice presidents and as a child met Dr. Rainey T. Wells.

I would say the absolute best part of working at Murray State is working with students! Getting to know them, helping them navigate college and being there to listen and support them. I always tell them anywhere they go here in the United States or abroad, they will meet fellow Racers or those that know about Murray State. That is a wonderful feeling!

To ALL MY ‘MURRAY KIDS’ thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have given me and remember ‘HOMECOMING IS BETTER THAN CHRISTMAS!’ AND I WILL SEE YOU AT HOMECOMING!!!!”

Murray State University’s Nonprofit Leadership Studies program awards

$3,000 grant to Oscar Cross Boys and Girls Club of Paducah

On Nov. 30, 2023, the Murray State University nonprofit leadership studies (NLS) program presented the 2023 Giving Back Endowment Student Philanthropy Award to the Oscar Cross Boys and Girls Club of Paducah in recognition of its ongoing efforts in youth development across their community.

The $3,000 grant will be utilized to support events for their “Smart Girls” and “Passport to Manhood” programs.

The grant is made possible by the Murray State University Giving Back Endowment (GBE), which is dedicated to advancing the understanding, appreciation and application of the principles of altruism, generosity, caring and service to others. The student engagement initiative provides an opportunity to operate a comprehensive grant making process while studying giving, philanthropy and grant making.

NLS students conducted a community needs assessment and identified youth development programs as required by the GBE. Applications were reviewed with the following types of guiding criteria: the scope and scale of youth development programming, the qualifications and experience of the volunteers and staff, and financial health and sustainability.

After extensive deliberation and thorough review, the Oscar Cross Boys and Girls Club was selected in recognition of its commitment to youth development. Students praised the application and the critical youth development work being done

Racers Helping Racers

food pantry celebrates 10th anniversary

Murray State University celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Racers Helping Racers food pantry on Feb. 14. The pantry provides free food for all University students and is confidential with no questions asked. Students can place an online food order once a week that can be picked up on Tuesdays or Thursdays.

Last fall, the food pantry opened a new location on the Murray State University Hopkinsville Regional Campus.

by the organization.

“It is especially inspiring to help an organization while taking this course, and I learned so much working together as a group to help such an important cause,” said senior Cayley Utley of Huntington, Tennessee, who is an NLS major.

The Oscar Cross Boys and Girls Club has been a positive force in the Paducah area for more than 60 years. It began with a dream of Oscar M. Cross, a probation officer who wanted to see young men have the chance to prepare for their futures and obtain higher goals. He made a commitment to keep youth off the streets, out of the juvenile justice system and to provide educational experiences that were not taught in the traditional classroom setting.

The club has a mission to enable all youth to be the best they can be and become well-rounded, caring and responsible citizens. The club’s goal is to provide a future for all youth. They provide tutoring and additional assistance to youth that are behind on writing and reading levels, as well as assisting with homework. They also bridge opportunities for minorities and underrepresented youth to give them a chance at finding better careers.

“The Giving Back Endowment initiative, made possible by the generosity of Dr. Robert and Patricia Long, provides uniquely impactful benefits,” said Dr. Elise Kieffer, Murray State NLS program director and assistant professor. “Not only are students able to learn about the grant process in a

personal, hands-on experience, but they are empowered with the emotional goodwill of giving and serving others through philanthropy. Likewise, local organizations benefit from the opportunity to submit their programs for potential funding. The GBE is a beautiful manifestation of the relationship between Murray State and the west Kentucky community. It was really my honor to facilitate this experience for students in the nonprofit leadership studies program.”

The NLS program is a part of the Department of Organizational Communication and Leadership which is dedicated to developing student competence in the application and synthesis of those communication processes, theories and skills that enable individuals and groups to organize effectively in an increasingly complex and global society. As part of the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business, the department and program are committed to advancing careers in dynamic environments of leadership and management.

To learn more about the Murray State nonprofit leadership studies program in the Department of Organizational Communication and Leadership, visit murraystate.edu/business

Model UN Team takes home seven awards at Midwest Model UN conference in St. Louis

Murray State University’s Model United Nations (UN) Team took home seven awards at the Midwest Model UN conference Feb. 21-24 in St. Louis, Missouri, marking the most successful performance in the team’s history.

There were 83 delegations and about 500 students representing 29 universities competing in the event.

The Murray State Model UN Team is designed to promote students’ active learning about the UN, international relations and important global issues and to help students develop their skills of debate, compromise, conflict resolution and negotiations by simulating the UN system. The club activities also help students gain a broader perspective of global issues and the role of the United Nations.

Murray State University selected for Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Collegiate Training Initiative program

Murray State University has been selected by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Collegiate Training Initiative (UAS-CTI) program.

The FAA’s UAS-CTI program recognizes institutions that prepare students for careers in unmanned aircraft systems, commonly referred to as drones.

In order to qualify for the initiative, schools must offer a bachelor’s or associate degree in UAS or a degree with a minor, concentration or certificate in UAS. Schools must provide curriculum covering various aspects of UAS training including handson flight practice, maintenance, uses, applications, privacy concerns, safety and federal policies concerning UAS.

Murray State provides a unique experience for students to minor in UAS and/or receive a certificate in UAS, or even to take an elective class across all programs on campus. Through hands-on training and cutting-edge technology, the program focuses on training students to enter the workforce in UAS or a career where they can utilize UAS and drones. In the last two years, the program has seen tremendous growth

in program size as trends in drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) become more prevalent in global industry. The program is represented by students across campus from agriculture to engineering and construction to nursing. The program’s goal is to train responsible, educated pilots with hands-on experience to use drones in their industry or career choice.

“Throughout my time as a member of Murray State University’s UAS program as both a student and a faculty member alike, I have seen exciting growth in our program and more students each semester entering the workforce using drones and UAVs,” said Drone Coordinator and UAS-CTI Instructor Blake Kennedy in Murray State’s Hutson School of Agriculture. “It is truly an exciting time for us and a great honor being selected to participate in this program, which provides a great opportunity for both our students and our University. Education and hands-on training is the goal of both our program and the Federal Aviation Administration’s UASCTI program. I am excited to see where this partnership takes us. We are pilots. We are Racers.”

Murray State University hosts drug safety summit on combating illicit fentanyl and saving lives

Murray State University, through its School of Nursing and Health Professions and in partnership with Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman, hosted a summit on March 26 regarding the dangers of illicit fentanyl and the latest efforts to combat this deadly drug. In addition to state and local leaders such as Coleman, national leaders including Jim Carroll, former director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and Uttam Dhillon, former acting administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration, participated.

Attendees received an overview of new innovations taking place in the education, recovery and treatment sectors. Additionally, there was a discussion by law enforcement officials on the international supply of dangerous narcotics.

Rifle secures fourth straight and 18th overall OVC title

Murray State rifle won the program’s fourth straight and 18th overall Ohio Valley Conference rifle championship in February. The Racers were successful in both the smallbore competition with a score of 2333 and in the air rifle competition with a score of 2375 for an aggregate total of 4708.

Caroline Martin won the individual air rifle competition with a 596 while earning OVC Freshman of the Year honors while teammate Scott Patterson placed second with a 595 to earn OVC Air Rifle Athlete of the Year. Matias Kiuru won the smallbore individual championship with a 587 en route to winning OVC Smallbore Athlete of the Year for a record-breaking fifth-straight season. Head Coach Alan Lollar picked up his ninth OVC Coach of the Year and his 10th conference championship at the helm for the Racers. Murray State placed six athletes on the 2024 All-OVC Teams.

Welcome to the new Curris Center

For years, when alumni have returned to visit the Murray State campus after being away for decades, they often have stepped into the Curris Center (the main student center) and exclaimed, “It’s exactly the same as I remember it!”

Well, no longer! And this is a good thing. Over the past several months, the inside of the Curris Center has been completely renovated. And not just renovated … Racerized!

The renovation project had several goals: to make the Curris Center a more attractive place for students to “hang out,” to provide increased visibility for student activity resources to encourage more student involvement, to brighten and liven up the building and to “Racerize” it with Murray State colors and symbols to make it unmistakably blue and gold.

Today, when visitors walk into either of the two main entrances, their first few steps will be onto a giant terrazzo blue and gold Murray State shield embedded in the floor, like a welcome mat made of Racer pride. Look up and they will see silhouettes of giant racehorses, backlit in Racer blue, running across the wall over the lounge and Starbucks. A stroll through the building will reveal blue and gold colors splashed playfully throughout the interior design, as well as Murray State graphics and murals brightening up the walls.

The dark browns and deep reds of the old Curris Center have been replaced with lighter colors, enhanced by design features such as

by Aviva Yasgur

reflective surfaces, more windows, playfully textured ceilings with rows of overhead lights and more. Even the campus bookstore boasts a large window display where students and visitors can see an inviting array of Racer gear.

Visitors will also notice more students using the center than they may remember from years ago. The renovation added more “soft seating,” or in other words, comfy chairs for hanging out, as well as study spaces, and carpeting in some areas to create a warmer, softer atmosphere and provide sound absorption. There are also several new spaces for group meetings and activities.

One of the favorite areas for students is the student lounge on the second floor. With a Starbucks providing attractive aromas and popular drinks and snacks, the new Mein Bowl eatery, a variety of comfortable seating options, attractive new lighting, the blue and gold design and power ports for device charging, this area has proven to be a popular spot for students to relax, socialize, study and grab a snack between classes.

“My favorite thing is seeing the increased student usage of the space,” said Bobby Koehler, Murray State Facilities Management’s space and project planner, who was highly involved in the project. “Not only are more students spending time here, but they’re staying for longer periods of time.”

In addition to these design features, the renovation also included several major substantive changes. First, students can take

advantage of a new DEVsource Technology Solutions Esports Arena, located on the first floor. Students can use any of its 30 gaming PCs, or one of its game consoles such as PlayStation and Xbox, to participate in a variety of competitive gaming activities. Esports are different than the video games of yesterday. Today’s gaming allows participants to connect with people around the world while engaging in innovation, computer science, skill development, competition and teamwork. On any given afternoon, this new arena is packed with students doing just that.

Luke Felinski, a senior computer science major and regular user of the Esports lab, said that the new space draws many more students than the old lab, which was located in the Industry & Technology Building, because the location in the Curris Center is more accessible and in a location where more students simply discover that it exists.

“I’ve made so many more gaming friends just in the one semester this new space has been open compared to all of the semesters of using the old space,” said Felinski. “This new space makes it so much easier for students who like gaming to meet each other, make new friends and connect.”

Another major change is the location of the Center for Student Involvement residing next to the bookstore and across from Starbucks, replacing the post office. Murray State’s home base for the Student Government Association, Greek Life and

all student organizations (of which there are more than 170), the Center for Student Involvement serves as the hub for student activities on campus. By relocating it to such a high-traffic, high-visibility area, the University wanted to make this resource more easily available to students, and the change seems to be positive.

Jeanie Morgan, student activities advisor and administrative assistant to the Student Government Association, said she has observed “a very noticeable difference in traffic,” with more students coming to the center inquiring about different organizations and activities.

“We used to be downstairs down a hallway, and we were hard to find,” said Morgan. “Now students walk by all the time. So they see our office and stop in to ask questions a lot more often than when we were downstairs.”

Of the renovations as a whole, Morgan

said, “I think alumni would be very pleased to visit the Curris Center. They will find lots of great changes, and then some things that are the same as they remember. Most importantly, we are still student oriented. But when you come in now, you know you’re at Murray State. We have the beautiful shields on the floor, the blue and gold colors. We’re definitely now a blue and gold building.”

Other changes include an improved, accessible entrance ramp on the second floor, upgrades to the behind-the-scenes kitchen and catering spaces, a Welcome Center on the first floor for the Office of Recruitment to use to meet with prospective students and campus visitors, virtual post office boxes, renovated restrooms and a renovated central stairwell.

Dr. Don Robertson, Murray State vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, said, “The renovation of the Curris Center has transformed the student

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: Dacia Monroe

Murray State University Design Engineering Technology Instructor Dacia Monroe was recently awarded the Board of Regents (BOR) Teaching Excellence Award for 2024. Monroe began teaching at Murray State in fall 2017 after earning her master’s degree in applied engineering and technology management in 2017 and her bachelor’s degree in engineering graphics and design in 2011, both from Murray State. Monroe brought industry experience with her upon her return in 2017, after having worked for Animax Designs in Nashville, Tennessee, as a drafting engineer and a drafting and documentation manager. Her time at Animax was spent designing and documenting internal mechanics of puppets and animatronic characters for themed entertainment clients such as Busch Gardens, Universal Creative and Walt Disney Imagineering.

Monroe teaches Design Engineering Technology courses that focus on mechanical design, design for manufacturability, and using Computer Aided Design (CAD) as a tool to solve engineering problems. Students in these courses have the opportunity to gain experience in multiple CAD softwares (AutoCAD, SOLIDWORKS and Creo) and rapid prototyping tools (3D printers, Laser cutters and CNC routers) to solve design problems. Monroe’s “CAD Applications” course serves as an elective for many of the majors within the School of Engineering; as such, she meets many students early in their Murray State

center, making it more student-focused and inviting. This will aid us in our student retention and persistence initiatives. In addition, the Curris Center now is a modern representation of Murray State University. The Welcome Center and other changes will assist us tremendously in the recruitment of new students to the University. It further enhances the beauty of our campus and, for most visitors, will be their first impression of Murray State University.”

Murray State partnered with Pinnacle, Inc., located nearby in Benton, Kentucky, as the general contractor for the project. Angela Lampe, Murray State Facilities Management’s associate director of facilities design and construction, said many of the staff from Pinnacle that were involved in the project are Murray State alumni.

“I could tell they were invested in this project and wanted it to turn out really well because they were Racers themselves,” she said.

studies. This course gives students exposure to and practice utilizing SOLIDWORKS, the parametric technology widely used to design solutions in industry.

Monroe serves Murray State and the School of Engineering by recruiting at area high schools and serving on the committee for the School of Engineering’s annual E-Day, which welcomes hundreds of area high school students to participate in engineering-based competitions.

Monroe presented in 2020 and 2023 at the 3DExperience World conference for topics associated with Computer Aided Design software (SOLIDWORKS) for education: “Using SOLIDWORKS 3D Markup to Evolve Feedback in Education Programs” and “Surfacing Fundamentals for Molding: A Classroom Project Guide.”

“I am honored to receive the BOR Teaching Excellence Award,” said Monroe. “I find great inspiration and encouragement from teaching students, having individual moments with them to ‘meet them where they are’ and witnessing their progress through a semester. This gives me a great sense of gratification, that I may have continued that learning for those students.”

RGetting to know new Racer football coach Jody Wright

by Clay Wagoner

egarded as one of the top recruiters and talent evaluators in the nation and boasting an extensive coaching pedigree, Jody Wright was hired as the 20th head football coach of the Murray State Racers in January.

A four-time FBS national champion, Wright takes over the Racers’ program after spending the last two seasons as the University of South Carolina’s tight ends coach.

“When we began the process of identifying the next head football coach at Murray State, we knew that we needed to look for a relentless recruiter, a proven winner, someone who can identify and develop talent and someone who could build and maintain positive relationships with our student-athletes. Jody Wright checks every one of those boxes,” Director of Athletics Nico Yantko said. “This was one of the best candidate pools that Murray State has ever seen and we were extremely thorough in evaluating what we needed to propel our program forward as proud members of the Missouri Valley Football Conference. In Jody, we know that we have chosen the right man at the right time to lead the Racers. I know I speak for all of Racer Nation when I say that we are beyond excited to welcome Jody, his wife Meredith, and their three children, to Murray.”

Wright’s resume is unrivaled in the coaching profession, highlighted by two stints under legendary head coach Nick Saban and working with other major names in the coaching profession including Shane Beamer, Lane Kiffin, Billy Napier, Kirby Smart, Sylvester Croom, Bill Clark and Joe Judge, among others.

“I’m extremely pleased to welcome Coach Jody Wright, his wife, Meredith, and their children to the Racer Family,” Murray State University President Dr. Bob Jackson said. “Coach Wright has an incredible background in coaching and comes from a long line of successful coaches. I know he will enhance this important program and I am extremely excited about the future of Racer Athletics.”

What drew you to Murray State and why was it the right time in your career?

I have always had a huge respect for the tradition and history of Murray State football. Some previous coaches that had worked at Murray State talked about what a great fan base and what a great place it was to live. I have always wanted to be a head coach and I felt I was prepared and ready for the challenge. Nico Yantko leading the athletic department was a big sell for me; having an athletics director that is passionate about returning Murray State football to playing at championship levels with the vision to help guide a department in the current climate of college athletics was very encouraging in knowing that Murray State was a place I wanted to be.

Tell us about the relationships of you and your staff and how did you decide on the group that you have brought in?

Most everyone on my staff I have coached with at either Alabama, Jacksonville State, South Carolina or in the NFL. I believe you win with people and I wanted my staff to be winning people that can help us develop these young men on and off the field. I also wanted coaches that had experience coaching at FCS football and that have recruited the five hour footprint of Murray State.

What are your thoughts on the Murray community?

I love this community; everyone has been amazing! The passion for Murray State Athletics is real and everyone goes out of their way to speak to you and let you know they are supporting you. My wife, Meredith, and my children are so excited about the move.

Out of your best recruits, what are some attributes that they share?

Elite competitors with strong work ethics who also have pride every time they put on a uniform and are going to play a championship standard.

How do you get players like that to Murray State?

Honesty and transparency. We let them know from the start that we are about developing winning

people on and off the field. Winning people find a way to win. We are going to coach and pour into them to be the best version of themselves. We are going to ask them to do everything at a championship standard and if they are not aligned with that, then maybe Murray State is not the place for them. We let them know that we are in the best conference in FCS football and it is going to be competitive. It is going to be hard and challenging year in and year out, but it will be worth it. They can accomplish all their goals at Murray State and we are going to be by their side helping them. The best players want to be coached and love a challenge.

Tell us about your dad and brothers and how you all became coaches from the football family you were brought up in?

Lynn Wright, my father, was a head high school football coach at Pickens Academy in Alabama. My brothers Josh, Jonathan and I grew up on my dad’s sidelines watching him make a difference in young people’s lives through

ORAL HISTORY PROJECT

The Murray State University Alumni Association wants to hear your story! Murray State’s Office of Alumni Relations has entered into a partnership with PCI, Inc., also known as Publishing Concepts, Inc., a third-party vendor who is helping the University update vital alumni contact information while also collecting your Murray State stories, experiences and memories, in your own words, for inclusion in an Oral History Project. With more than 80,000 alumni worldwide, there are so many Racer stories to tell! These stories will be preserved in a beautiful book that celebrates Murray State University’s impact on your life and the influence that your Racer experience had on the person you are today.

If you have not already, you will likely receive an email, postcard and/or phone call from PCI asking for some personal information and a story about your time as a Murray State University student. The MSUAA wants to assure you that it is an important project and a legitimate partnership between PCI and the University.

PCI is a family-owned business based in Dallas, Texas, that has published directories for educational institutions, fraternities, sororities and military organizations across the country for over 100 years. While on the phone with a PCI representative, they will want to make sure your contact information on file with Murray State University is up to date. Please note, the MSUAA and PCI are committed to protecting your information and what you provide will be held confidential.

It is important to note that PCI is facilitating this project at

athletics. That is why all three of us became coaches because of the positive impact we saw him make on so many people. My brother Josh is the head coach at Tuscaloosa Academy in Alabama. My brother Jonathan just recently joined his staff as well as his defensive coordinator. My father passed away from Lou Gehrig’s Disease in June of 2022 and seeing his attitude and fight through something so difficult was so inspiring to me. Being able to read messages, letters and hear stories of former players, staff and people in the community and the positive impact he had made on so many people made me so grateful that God had blessed me with such an amazing role model as my dad. It also made me want to make him proud as a coach. My mom, Ginger Wright, is a retired elementary school teacher and is the most amazing woman in the world. She always sacrificed so much raising three sons and always supported my dad and my brothers and me.

no cost to the University or the MSUAA. During the call, PCI will offer you the opportunity to purchase the Oral History Book, in addition to other MSU-branded merchandise exclusive to this project. However, it is crucial that we emphasize that your participation is entirely voluntary, and there is no obligation to make any purchases whether you shared your story or not.

“The final oral history book that will come from this project will be a prized possession for so many Racers,” said Murray State Director of Alumni Relations Carrie McGinnis.

“PCI has partnered with many universities nationwide, including several others in Kentucky, on projects similar to this. I’ve seen the final products and they are fantastic. You will see hundreds of pages featuring inspirational and memorable stories shared by Racers from throughout Murray State’s history laid out beautifully with amazing photos and fun graphics. I cannot wait to see the final result. But, we cannot do it without the help and trust of our Racer alumni family. Please consider participating in this project and sharing your unique story for all of us to enjoy,” McGinnis said.

Tell us your story! Call the dedicated Murray State University update line at 1-866-663-6216 or email customerservice@ publishingconcepts.com. You can also ask questions or learn more about this exciting project using this QR code, by visiting murraystate.edu/oralhistoryproject or by calling Murray State’s Sid Easley Alumni Center at 270-809-5600.

A bold sense of gratitude as efforts continue toward our $100 million goal

by the Murray State Office of Development

We are accelerating our efforts to support our students and programs through the Be Bold: Forever Blue & Gold Centennial Campaign. We are reaching out to alumni and friends around the globe to ask for their support, and there are many wonderful updates to share. Racers really stepped up in the fall and at calendar yearend to make a record-breaking show of support across our campus. This momentous generosity continues into 2024, and as of mid-April, we have raised over $77.5 million toward our goal of $100 million – making this the most successful capital fundraising campaign in the history of Murray State University! Thank you for being bold!

To make a gift to the University and help support the Be Bold: Forever Blue & Gold Centennial Campaign, call the Murray State Office of Development at 270-809-3001 or visit murraystate.edu/giving

A bold gift from DEVsource Technology Solutions to support Murray State Esports DEVsource Technology Solutions, Murray, Kentucky, and their CEO, Mike Hopkins, ’94, has made a commitment of $300,000 to the Murray State Esports program. This gift will be a major driver in providing sustainability, student scholarships and expansion opportunities for Murray State’s Esports program and facilities. The gift will establish the DEVsource Technology Solutions Esports Fund for Excellence Endowment and will support the brand-new and fully-equipped Esports arena in the Curris Center. It will also establish scholarships for students participating in Esports while supporting operating costs and equipment, facility upgrades, events and more. This generous

gift will have an enormous impact on the University’s ability to continue to maintain this cutting-edge new facility that will provide innumerable benefits to Murray State’s students and the entire University community.

A special family makes a gift to name the Sergeant Patrick J. Medley Veteran and Military Student Success Coordinator Office

Whitney Medley Bechtel, her husband Dr. Brett Bechtel (Paducah, Kentucky) and her late parents, Patrick James and Karen Joy Medley, have showered Murray State with support ever since Whitney enrolled as a student more than 20 years ago.

The Bechtels’ recent commitment of $50,000 will establish a new scholarship to assist student veterans in memory of Whitney’s father, Patrick James Medley, who served his country as a sergeant in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. The Bechtels’ dedication to veterans and national service runs deep as not only was Whitney’s father a veteran, but Dr. Brett Bechtel also served in the military. While this new scholarship will honor Whitney’s father, in 2022 Whitney established another scholarship in memory of her mother to assist Murray State students majoring in theatre, which was her mother’s passion. Their support will make a difference for Racers for generations to come.

Michael & Jane Ann Cain endowed scholarship

Mike and Jane Ann Cain have made a generous gift of $100,000 to establish the Michael & Jane Ann Cain Endowed Scholarship. Mike Cain is a 1975 Murray State graduate and retired president of Lattimore, Morgan, Black, & Cain based in Brentwood, Tennessee. Their new scholarship fund will support first generation Kentucky students from Carlisle County and Graves County pursuing a degree in business.

Support for Wrather Hall names the Charles and Anne Wrather Hoke Mezzanine

The rich legacy of the Wrather Family is woven into the history of Murray State University. Dr. Marvin “M.O.” Wrather, a distinguished member of the inaugural graduating class of 1926, played a pivotal role in establishing the foundation of our presentday University.

Wrather’s daughter, Anne Wrather Hoke and her husband Charles have continued this legacy of service and support to Murray State University. In recent years, Charles and Anne Hoke renovated and furnished the Charles and Anne Hoke Room in Wrather Hall, which serves as an elegant dining room, an intimate venue for private events, and a “green room” for live performances housed in the Wrather Hall Auditorium.

The family’s support now spans three generations as Charles and Anne’s daughter, Rebecca Hoke Zion, has sought to continue

Brett and Whitney Bechtel

Jane Ann and Mike Cain

the Wrather family legacy through continued support to the University. In a recent initiative, the family pledged a generous amount of $100,000 for student scholarships and research support, along with an additional $100,000 for the renovation of the Wrather Auditorium balcony. The sum of their most recent support ($200,000) will be transformative to Murray State’s campus.

Generous gift to establish the Vernon L. and Cathryn R. Hamm Trust Endowed Professorship in Equine Science Vernon, ’73, and Cathryn Hamm of O’Fallon, Illinois, have made a gift of $125,000 to be matched in collaboration with the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education Endowment Match Program for a total new gift of $250,000. This gift will establish the Vernon L. and Cathryn R. Hamm Trust Endowed Professorship in Equine Science. An endowed faculty position in equine science will enhance the Hutson School of Agriculture’s ability to recruit and retain high caliber professors who provide our equine students with the best education possible.

The Calhoun & Company Accounting Scholarship Endowment

Calhoun & Company, PLLC, is an accounting and tax firm that originated in the mid1970s, serving the Hopkinsville and western Kentucky area with a focus on individuals and small businesses. Calhoun & Company has

been using their current name since 1995 and now serves western and central Kentucky, as well as northern Tennessee. The leadership of Calhoun & Company, PLLC, includes Debbie Fuller, ’89.

The Calhoun & Company Accounting Scholarship Endowment has been established by a generous gift from the company and will support accounting students with a preference for those who graduate from a high school located in the Pennyrile Region of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Ms. Cui Liu, ’03, and husband, Mr. Rodney Johnston establish two new endowed scholarships

Cui Liu’s journey from a teenager moving from China to the United States to the owner of Cui Liu Designs reflects the realization of a lifelong dream rooted in her passion for home décor. Graduating from Murray State University with a degree in international business in 2003, Liu embarked on the challenging path of entrepreneurship, guided by her faith and a fearless attitude toward trying new things.

Establishing Cui Liu Designs in 2015 in Murray, Kentucky, Liu faced challenges but recognized the importance of a solid business plan aligned with her core values.

Liu and her husband, Rodney Johnston, have established two new endowed scholarships through a gift of $50,000 to the Murray State University Foundation, Inc.: The Cui Liu & Rodney Johnston Family Endowed Business Scholarship and The Cui Liu & Rodney Johnston Family International Student Endowed Scholarship.

Racer Athletics sees record-breaking season of giving

As part of the Be Bold: Forever Blue & Gold Centennial Campaign, many alumni and

friends have bestowed extremely generous gifts on Murray State’s Athletics program. In particular, Murray State recently received three seven-figure gifts from Swift & Staley, the Jim Bob Kevil Estate and Dairyman’s Supply Company. All three gifts represent enormous investments both in facility enhancements and the student-athlete experience, and will help the University continue its work on both ongoing projects and future capital improvements.

On March 1, Murray State announced that Swift & Staley, a Paducah-based contracting company, had made a recordbreaking gift of $1.5 million to Racer Athletics, the largest-ever single investment to Racer Athletics in department history. Swift & Staley President Leon Owens, who earned his MBA from Murray State in 2014, also serves as Chair of the Murray State Board of Regents.

Another locally-based company, Dairyman’s Supply Company of Mayfield, Kentucky, earlier this winter made a $1 million gift to Racer Athletics.

Murray State Athletics was also thrilled to announce two gifts from the Jim Bob Kevil Estate, totaling $1.4 million in support. The late James R. (“Jim Bob”) Kevil earned three bachelor’s degrees and a master’s degree from Murray State, and generously supported the University and Racer Athletics throughout his life and beyond, including this estate gift.

Murray State Athletics has seen unprecedented growth around its facilities, having already begun more than $2 million in capital projects, including the newly announced weight room renovation in Roy Stewart Stadium and the renovation of the men’s basketball locker room. Other projects that have been completed over the last 18 months include the Baseball/Softball Performance Center, upgrades to football team spaces and the new LED lights in the CFSB Center.

The Anne and Charles Hoke Family

The Cathryn and Vernon Hamm Family

Cui Liu

Leon Owens

In 1997, Kentucky House Bill 1 created Programs of Distinction through the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education at public postsecondary institutions, including Murray State University’s Cybersecurity and Network Management (CNM) program.

As the program continues to grow – it welcomed its largest freshman class in program history and reported a 30% increase in overall program enrollment from fall 2022 – the program keeps securing grants to fuel that growth and expand program offerings.

Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate

The Cyber Center recently received a $1.5 million three-year grant from the Employment and Training Administration within the Department of Labor through the Delta Regional Authority to fund a Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate program.

The nine-month, 12-credit hour program aims to increase cybersecurity employment opportunities for marginalized populations within the Kentucky Delta Region and develop a sustainable pipeline of skilled cybersecurity analysts to meet the growing demand in the cybersecurity industry.

This comprehensive certificate program, which is offered online and in-person, is designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic and critical field of cybersecurity analysis. Participants will gain handson experience in threat detection, networking, vulnerability assessment and risk management.

The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from network configuration and vulnerability assessment to traffic analysis. With a focus on practical, real-world scenarios, students will learn to identify and mitigate cyber threats effectively, safeguarding organizations from potential breaches and data loss. All curriculum is aligned with industry certifications, allowing students to finish with multiple industry credentials.

The program offers free tuition for 12 credit hours, paid cybersecurity industry credentials, including Comptia’s A+, Network+ and Security+, a free laptop to eligible students, paid internships, career coaching, job placement support, real world

Murray State’s Program of Distinction: Cybersecurity and Network Management

by Dani Ray

experience, and childcare support is available for class conflicts.

The program is designed for incumbent workers and new workforce entrants wishing to pursue a cyber analyst career, including individuals who are currently underemployed, seeking advancement, changing careers or wanting to earn a higher income, with an increased focus on those workers who have been historically marginalized within the field of technology.

The lack of women and minorities in cybersecurity is a persistent and concerning issue within the industry and is prioritized by the grant, according to Murray State Cyber Center Director Dr. Michael Ramage.

“Despite progress in promoting diversity and inclusion in various fields, cybersecurity still faces a significant underrepresentation of women and minority groups,” said Ramage. “The lack of diversity in cybersecurity hinders innovation, problemsolving, and overall effectiveness in addressing complex cyber threats. By actively promoting inclusivity, providing mentorship and training opportunities and challenging biases, the industry can harness broader perspectives and experiences, ultimately strengthening cybersecurity defenses and fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment.”

“By actively promoting inclusivity, providing mentorship and training opportunities and challenging biases, the industry can harness broader perspectives and experiences …”

— Dr. Michael Ramage

Murray State Cyber Center Director

Liliana Bazzell, a junior from Tyler, Texas, is just one Murray State student helping to rewrite the narrative of underrepresented groups in technology. Bazzell, who is majoring in CNM with a track

in cybersecurity and digital forensics and a 2024-2025 recipient of the Robert “Bob” W. and Caroline “Carol” Jones Internship/Academic Scholarship Fund for Excellence, plans to work in the financial services industry after graduation and gain experience in forensic analysis.

“I was attracted to Murray State University because the cybersecurity program is incredibly strong and has accreditation from the National Security Agency (NSA),” Bazzell said. “What I love most about Murray State’s program over others is the amazing faculty and ideal class sizes. Our faculty have extensive experience and put the success of their students at the forefront of their mission. Class sizes allow students to get to know their professors and classmates and give them the ability to collaborate with each other to solve problems. I have enjoyed learning here at Murray State and am so thankful for the connections that I have made through the friendship and community fostered by the faculty.”

Updated Transfer Pathway

Murray State University and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) have updated their transfer pathway to satisfy the requirements for the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Computer Information Technologies at KCTCS that leads to the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Network Management at Murray State.

The transfer pathway between KCTCS and Murray State updates a strong partnership established more than 20 years ago. This updated pathway continues Murray State’s commitment to 1997 legislation.

At least 42 semester hours of the 120 hours required for a bachelor’s degree must be earned in courses at the 300-level or above. The baccalaureate degree candidate must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 in all credits presented for graduation whether earned at Murray State or elsewhere, in all credits completed at Murray State and in the courses for each major, minor or area.

Since 2002, years three and four of the cybersecurity and network management program can be accomplished in person or completely online. Ramage said that the program’s flexibility is ideal for both full-time transfer students and working adults.

“We have students who complete their AAS and transfer into the CNM program full-time, and we have students who finish their AAS, start a full-time job and work through the program as part-time online students,” said Ramage. “The beauty of our partnership with KCTCS is that the agreement and the CNM program are designed to support both scenarios.”

Kentucky Economic Forum Technology Award

Murray State received an award at the Kentucky Association for Economic Development’s (KAED) annual Kentucky Economic Forum in Covington, Kentucky, in late October 2023. The University earned the Technology Award presented by GIS WebTech. Murray State’s Cyber Center provides technology and cybersecurity leadership across the Commonwealth of Kentucky, as it has done for more than two decades. As part of the Program of Distinction, the Cyber Center provides outreach and support to residents, businesses, local governments and state organizations.

“As the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s Program of Distinction for Cybersecurity, the Cyber Center supports entities statewide with technology and cybersecurity expertise, including government, educators and economic developers,” said Ramage. “For me, this award provides validation that we are fulfilling that important responsibility.”

Find additional information about Murray State’s cybersecurity program at murraystate.edu/cyber

Scan to see a video and learn more about our Cybersecurity and Network Management program!

Liliana Bazzell

Getting to know SGA President Ellie McGowan

by Ellie Krouse

The president of the Student Government Association (SGA) is elected by the students to be the voice of the student body on Murray State’s campus. It is an important and rigorous role to be sure, but how much do we really know about the reality of being such a visible campus figure?

SGA President and Student Regent Ellie McGowan wakes up promptly at 6 a.m. every morning. She is full of energy and ready to take on what she knows will be a hectic day and to look ahead to what will be an even more hectic week.

“I’ve just always been busy, and that’s the way I like it,” McGowan said.

For McGowan, no two days look alike and lead to chaotic possibilities that excite her. On top of serving in her second term as SGA president and student regent, she is a Presidential Fellowship recipient and honors student writing a thesis, a member of Alpha Omicron Pi (AOPi) sorority and two-time vice president of recruitment for the chapter, serves as chair of the Kentucky Board of Student Body Presidents, works two on-campus jobs and is the vice president of the Agriculture Business Club. Most recently, McGowan was recognized as one of the Spring 2024 Outstanding Seniors.

And if that is not enough to make anyone’s head spin, McGowan was also named the 2023 Ms. MSU Scholarship Pageant winner and the 2021 MSU Homecoming Queen.

“In both experiences, I am very thankful for (them) looking back on my time at Murray State,” McGowan said. “They were not experiences that I thought that I would have had coming into college. I’m just absolutely honored to be able to say that I was able to participate in both of those events.”

In spite of her whirlwind extra-curricular schedule, a constant in McGowan’s life is her class schedule. As she will tell you, she is a student first. As a proud fourth-generation Murray State student and part of the Honors College, her classes are as important and as rigorous as her title. With a thesis to write and a study abroad requirement to fulfill before graduation in May, on top of all of her other roles, McGowan isn’t worried about how she will fit it all in.

When she’s not killing the game in her studies, she is sharing her voice in student government and sitting on internal University committees.

If there was one thing she knew she wanted to do as a student, it was to be a part of the student government. After being selected as a state officer for Kentucky FFA during her freshman year of college, McGowan realized that she wanted to impact younger individuals and help them grow.

“Knowing people in student government while in high school that were also in the agriculture industry really showed me the importance of being involved in student government and how much change they get to make for campus,” she said.

She spent her high school years taking on leadership roles such as Executive Student Council President and Crittenden County FFA Chapter President. Her senior year she stayed busy helping to establish new programs within her school and taking online college courses, all while working three jobs.

“I definitely think I was a go-getter in high school just like I am in college,” McGowan said.

“Having those experiences really set a foundation for me to know what it feels like to help change an organization or change the lives of others. That’s definitely a passion that began when I was in high school, and I’ve definitely fostered it and continued to grow it here at Murray State.”

McGowan said her leadership roles during high school trained her for the “many hats” she now wears, and the experiences have greatly contributed to the person she is today.

Wednesday nights are the biggest nights for Ellie and SGA. You can find her beforehand in her office space working away. Then she starts the meeting with the Pledge Of Allegiance before moving through an agenda full of guest speakers, branch reports and campus updates that include student representatives and faculty and staff.

She leads each meeting with full attention from her staff and respect from her peers. While she humbly commands the room, she is also quick with a joke that keeps the mood light. Her passion to help others and help create change on campus can be seen through how she conducts SGA meetings and has led to some of her biggest SGA achievements.

“One of the biggest SGA achievements that we got was when we changed the voting requirements for Freshman Senate elections. It left a population of first-time freshmen vulnerable whenever it came to representation on campus.”

As her impressive term as president and her Murray State college career comes to a close this spring, she falls back on the principles that have guided her life thus far.

“I’m a very live-in-the-moment person. I try to invest in today first and foremost and then see what opportunities come as the days go on.”

With the help of her principles, passion, dedication and her time at Murray State, she is sure to go on to create the kind of change we need to see in our ever-changing world.

“Now at the end of it all I’m ready to pass on the torch, not because I’m tired of it but because I’ve done what I needed to do and I’ve accomplished a lot alongside my team.”

Ellie McGowan (right) and SGA advisor Jeanie Morgan.

BOARD OF REGENTS SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Melony Shemberger

Dr. Melony Shemberger is professor of journalism and mass communications at Murray State University. She also serves as assessment coordinator for the undergraduate programs in the Department of Journalism and Mass Communications (JMC), one of 111 programs in the nation and one of three in Kentucky accredited by the Accrediting Council on the Education of Journalism and Mass Communications.

Shemberger began her Murray State career in 2012 when she was an adjunct instructor for the College of Education and Human Services, teaching courses in the human development and leadership program at the Fort Campbell and Madisonville regional campuses. In 2013, she joined the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business as an assistant professor in the JMC department, teaching various undergraduate and graduate courses. She was promoted to associate professor in 2018, earned tenure in 2019, and promoted to full professor in 2023. She also served briefly as the interim director of the Murray State University Faculty Development Center and continues to facilitate workshops each semester for the faculty.

A native of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, Shemberger earned a Bachelor of Science degree in two majors — mass communications and history/government — from Western Kentucky University. After graduating in 1993, she began her professional media career as an on-air radio news announcer for WHOP AM & FM, Hopkinsville, before moving into advertising at The Leaf-Chronicle in

Clarksville, Tennessee. She returned to WHOP as an assistant news director, covering education and court news. Later, she covered the same news beats, plus business news, at the Kentucky New Era newspaper in Hopkinsville for the next five years, earning several Kentucky Press Association (KPA) journalism awards for her news reporting and page design. She was also the education reporter for the Todd County Standard in Elkton, winning additional KPA awards.

For the next eight years beginning in 2005, Shemberger worked in the public relations and marketing office at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, starting as the communication specialist before being promoted to assistant director of communication. In these roles, she assisted in or led strategic communication efforts that promoted the university’s recruitment and retention efforts, as well as donor relations. Her work garnered state recognition from the Tennessee College Public Relations Association. She also was an adjunct instructor in APSU’s communication and marketing departments, teaching courses in copy editing, feature writing and marketing.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree from WKU, Shemberger has a master’s degree in mass communications from Murray State University (2004), a master’s in management from APSU (2006), a Doctor of Education in higher education administration and supervision from Tennessee State University (2011), and a master’s in instructional design from the University of Kentucky (2021),

where she also received a Certificate in Distance Education. She is currently pursuing a fourth master’s in library and information science from the University of Arizona. She has a Teaching Online Certificate from Quality Matters (QM), considered the gold standard in online education, and is certified as a QM Master Peer Reviewer.

A lifetime member of The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Shemberger serves as the Murray State University chapter president. She held a term on the Society’s national board of directors in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, from 2016-18.

Shemberger is in her second term as faculty regent on the Murray State University Board of Regents. The Murray State faculty elected her to a three-year term in 2019 and re-elected her in 2022. Since 2019, she has chaired the board’s Academic Excellence and Scholarly Activities Committee.

Outside of Murray State, Shemberger is campus director of the Governor’s Scholars Program at Murray. She and her husband, Russ, a First Assist and surgical technologist, are avid triathletes and runners. The couple resides in Murray.

Murray State University Board of Regents - December 2023 Commencement

Dr. Melony Shemberger

Murray State Greek life – a vibrant part of the campus community!

by Jennifer Cline

The Greek fraternity and sorority community is an integral part of Murray State campus life with 24 chapters on campus. Greek life at Murray State provides an excellent opportunity for students to become more involved with the community, make lasting connections and gain valuable leadership skills. Currently, there are approximately 1,115 members, making up 14% of Murray State’s undergraduate population. Students have numerous avenues to be involved and find their place within the Greek life community.

“The Greek community is a very important part of Murray State University,” said Dr. Don Robertson, vice president of student affairs and enrollment management. “Murray State takes great pride in our Greek organizations as they strive to continually make a difference through leadership, scholarship, service and philanthropy, and social advancement.”

The Murray State Office of Greek Life strives to promote opportunities for members to engage in philanthropic work, raise awareness for important causes and give back to the community. Additionally, fraternity and sorority members prioritize academic success, with many chapters offering resources and support to help members achieve their academic goals.

Academically, Murray State Greek organizations showcased a successful fall 2023

academic semester based on the recently released grade report. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., led the sororities among fall 2023 active members with an overall 3.68 GPA, while Sigma Phi Epsilon excelled among the fraternities with a 3.56 overall GPA.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and Sigma Phi Epsilon new members had an outstanding semester with a 3.56 GPA and 3.29 GPA, respectively. Greek organization members had an overall GPA of 3.22, surpassing the overall undergraduate average of 3.14.

Individual organizations work diligently to be successful academically and compete yearly for the President’s Cup, an award presented to the fraternity and sorority with the highest chapter GPA. In addition, Greek organizations have developed programming to help support members academically. Since it is imperative to a student’s collegiate success that they succeed academically, both organizations and the Office of Greek Life provide academic assistance to help support Greek members.

“The overall cumulative GPA of Greek member groups for both men and women is higher than the overall cumulative average of the University. This has been the case for the past 16 semesters,” said Robertson. “This is a testament to the focus and priority our fraternities and sororities place on scholarship and academic success. Murray State University takes great pride in the academic success and commitment to excellence of our Greek organizations.”

“Fraternity and sorority life is such a vital part of Murray State’s history. Stemming back as early as the 1940s, our members have served in the community, raised money for their national philanthropies, held leadership positions on campus and have become prominent figures across the country,” said Kim Newbern, coordinator of Greek life and student leadership programs.

Several of the Murray State Greek life organizations have received national recognitions based on their service in the community, fundraising efforts and academic excellence. Annually the collective chapters raise over $100,000 for philanthropies and commit to over 10,000 hours of community service.

SORORITIES

The women of the Panhellenic Council stand for good scholarship, guarding good health, maintenance of fine standards, and serving, to the best of their ability, their college community. Murray State is home to eight Panhellenic Sororities - Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Gamma Delta, Alpha Omicron Pi, Alpha Sigma Alpha, Delta Zeta, Kappa Delta, Sigma Sigma Sigma and Sigma Alpha. The Murray State Panhellenic Council currently supports the philanthropic organizations LOTUS and Circle of Sisterhood.

The Murray State University sorority suites, which provide meeting spaces for Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Gamma Delta, Alpha

Omicron Pi and Alpha Sigma Alpha, recently received needed enhancements including new roofing for both buildings, a new dumpster enclosure in the parking lot, updates to the courtyard, decorative fencing and brick columns, lighting and landscaping upgrades along with running fiber to allow for new security cameras and door access control.

SORORITY PHILANTHROPIES

• Alpha Delta Pi – Ronald McDonald House Charities

• Alpha Gamma Delta – Fighting Hunger

• Alpha Omicron Pi– Arthritis Foundation

• Alpha Sigma Alpha– Special Olympics, S. June Smith Center, Girls On The Run International, Toys for Tots

• Delta Zeta – Speech and Hearing; The Painted Turtle; The Starkey Hearing Foundation

• Kappa Delta – Girl Scouts of the USA, Prevent Child Abuse America, Orthopedic Research Awards and Children’s Hospital of Richmond, Virginia

• Sigma Sigma Sigma – Sigma Serves Children: Robbie Page Memorial and March of Dimes

• Sigma Alpha – Agriculture in the Classroom, Heifer International, Bright Life Farms

FRATERNITIES

The Interfraternity Council, also known as the IFC, is a governing body that oversees the activities of fraternities on college and university campuses across the United States. The IFC is dedicated to promoting leadership, scholarship, service and brotherhood among its members while also fostering a sense of community within the broader campus environment. At Murray State, the IFC is comprised of eight fraternities – Alpha Gamma Rho, Alpha Sigma Phi, Alpha Tau Omega, Lambda Chi Alpha, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Sigma Chi and Sigma Pi. In addition, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia returned to the community this semester as an independent fraternity. Murray State fraternities are involved in many philanthropic events throughout the year and most recently, the men of IFC joined together to support the United Way of Calloway County.

FRATERNITY PHILANTHROPIES

• Alpha Gamma Rho – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

• Alpha Sigma Phi – Home for Our Troops; RAINN; Habitat for Humanity; Humane Society; Big Brothers Big Sisters; Men Who Wear Pink

• Alpha Omicron Pi– Arthritis Foundation

• Alpha Tau Omega– Wounded Warrior Project and Make A Wish Foundation

• Lambda Chi Alpha – Feeding America

• Pi Kappa Alpha –The Taylor Trudeau Cycle for Life; Soup for the Soul; Men Who Wear Pink

• Sigma Pi – ACE Project; Amazing Day Foundation; Donate Life America

• Sigma Phi Epsilon – National: Big Brothers Big Sisters | Local: Best Buddies – Murray, Kentucky

• Sigma Chi – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; Derby Days; United Way

DIVINE NINE

The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), also known as the Divine Nine, is a collaborative organization made up of nine historically black fraternities and sororities. These organizations were founded with the purpose of fostering brotherhood/ sisterhood, scholarship and service within the African American community. The NPHC is comprised of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. These sororities and fraternities are committed to promoting academic excellence, leadership and community service among its members and have a rich history of making a positive impact in the local community. The NPHC currently raises money to support Racers Helping Racers, Murray State’s food pantry, and also provides programming for mental health awareness.

The NPHC Plaza, located on the main walkway of Murray State’s campus near the corner of 15th and Olive Streets, was unveiled in 2022. The Plaza includes nine brick columns showcasing each of the NPHC Greek organization’s letters and crest. Personalized bricks purchased by alumni and supporters span out from each column to honor these nine organizations.

“I, myself, am a product of our Greek community,” said Newbern. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. Serving as the coordinator of Greek life and student leadership programs since 2017 has been the opportunity of a lifetime and working with amazing students who have the same passion for helping others has been truly rewarding.”

Murray State’s Greek life offers students

a valuable opportunity to engage with the community, develop lasting relationships and cultivate essential leadership abilities. Greek life provides a diverse range of avenues for students to immerse themselves and find their niche within the community. Above all, these chapters foster strong friendships and a sense of belonging that lasts well beyond graduation.

DIVINE NINE PHILANTHROPIES

• Alpha Phi Alpha– March of Dimes; Head Start; Boy Scouts of America; Big Brothers Big Sisters

• Alpha Kappa Alpha – Strengthen O ur Sisterhood, Empower O ur Families, Build O ur Economic Wealth, Enhance O ur Environment, Advocate for Social Justice, Uplift O ur Local Community

• Kappa Alpha Psi– Room to Read, Guide Right, Military and Veteran Affairs Commission

• Omega Psi Phi – American Diabetes Association; Voter Registration & Education; Assault on Illiteracy; Habitat for Humanity; Achievement Week; Talent Hunt Program

• Delta Sigma Theta – Five-Point Thrust: Economic Development; Educational Development; International Awareness and Involvement; Physical and Mental Health; Political Awareness and Involvement

• Phi Beta Sigma – Sigma Wellness (Living Fit, Living Healthy, Living Responsible, Living Risk Free, Living Balanced); Sigma Advocacy (Project VOTE, Sigma Week on Capitol Hill, Sigma Day at the State Capitol)

• Zeta Phi Beta – March of Dimes; National Educational Foundation; Stork’s Nest; Zetas Helping Other People Excel (Z-H.O.P.E.); Zeta Organization Leadership Program (ZOL); Elder Care Initiative

“The Greek system is very important to the recruitment and retention of our students,” Robertson said. “Our fraternities and sororities provide a positive way for students to identify with and feel a part of Murray State University.”

Learn more about Murray State University Greek Life by calling 270-809-6951 or by visiting murraystate.edu/greeklife

Oh, the places you’ll go!

by Aviva Yasgur

Study abroad … did you do it when you were a student? Those who do often reflect later that it was a life-changing, eye-opening, seminal experience. Research has also shown that international education experiences correlate with academic success measures such as higher rates of graduation, higher GPAs and more engagement in classes.

Murray State’s Education Abroad Office works to promote these opportunities to students and help them navigate all steps of the process including finding the right program, applying, obtaining financial aid, making travel preparations and more.

This Spring Break, 18 first-year, firstgeneration students, along with two faculty and two staff members, traveled to London to study theater and media literacy, as part of a semester-long class that they have been a part of together with the same faculty. Uniquely in this case, the Spring Break travel component is part of a semester-long learning experience that these students and faculty are all sharing together.

Jennifer Smith, assistant director of Murray State’s Center for Student Engagement and Success, said that she was researching new ways to help first-generation students succeed. She said she had learned that other colleges had seen improved success (i.e., higher graduation rates, better grades) among first-generation students by engaging them in some kind of program or activity that creates a “cohort,” or a smaller community within the University that gives them a sense of belonging, connection and support.

Developing new ways to help firstgeneration students succeed at Murray State is especially important, according to Smith, because 41% of Murray’s undergraduate population are first-generation college students. This percentage is higher than most other

comparable schools. The success of one first-generation student can have profound ripple effects for an entire family, changing that family’s educational and economic trajectory for generations.

“With me being at Murray State, I’m opening the door for my brother, cousins and other young people in my family,” said Nevaeh Jackson, freshman public and community health major, and a participant in the London program. “They see that they can do whatever they set their minds to through me.”

Another participant, Madisyn Farley, freshman exercise science major, said, “To be a

“Developing curiosity is essential to learning and studying abroad does this very well.”

— Dr. Marcie Hinton, associate professor of public relations

first-generation college student means to break tradition and challenge myself. It means setting a higher goal for my family’s incoming and future generations. It means raising the standard bar in my family, encouraging others to further their education. This course has helped me explore other cultures, further my understanding in diversity, and later in life I will be able to not only encourage my children to go to college but to reach for the stars, go to London, or whatever they dream of.”

Of the 18 students who are part of the program, half are enrolled in THD 104, The Theatrical Experience, with David Balthrop, dean of the College of Humanities and Fine Arts, and the other half are enrolled in JMC 168, Media

Literacy and Society, with Dr. Marcie Hinton, associate professor of public relations. The two classes traveled through London together. Each class has spent the first part of the semester preparing for the London experience, and upon returning to campus after Spring Break, will spend time processing and reflecting on the journey.

Some of the highlights of the program included touring Windsor Castle, attending shows on the West End, seeing the Roman Baths in Bath, visiting Stonehenge, riding the Tube, visiting museums such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, trying new foods, exploring St. Paul’s Cathedral, taking the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour and even just walking around the city. The group also had opportunities to interact with locals, including engaging in a conversation about the importance of community building and culture with an activist and social entrepreneur in a bookshop she manages.

Balthrop, who was a first-generation college student himself, said that the program is a totally immersive experience. “The whole day every day is class time. Class is never-ending, and students love and thrive on that.”

Like Balthrop, Hinton said that getting the students to open up to new experiences, and then gain confidence in themselves that they can continue to try new things and not be scared of them, is an invaluable part of the education abroad program.

“The biggest compliment I could ever get is when a student tells me or writes about how the program has expanded their sense of curiosity,” Hinton said. “Developing curiosity is essential to learning and studying abroad does this very well.”

2024 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients honored

The Murray State University Alumni Association (MSUAA) is proud to announce that four outstanding Murray State alumni were selected as the 2024 recipients of the Distinguished Alumni Award. This year’s dinner and award ceremony was held on April 19 at the CFSB Center.

The Distinguished Alumni Award has been presented annually to Murray State alumni who

have made meaningful contributions to their professions on a local, state and national level. It is the highest honor an alum can earn from the MSUAA and recognizes those who have excelled both professionally and personally.

The Distinguished Alumni honorees for 2024 were Steven David, ’79, Cindy Griner, ’82, Richard Heath, ’84, ’89, and Popeye Jones, ’05. The 2024 Distinguished Young Alumni Award

ALUMNI NEWS AND CLASS NOTES

Erin Carrico, ’09, executive director of the Murray Convention and Visitors Bureau, has been honored with the prestigious Kentucky Association of Convention and Visitors Bureau Tourism Director of the Year award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the tourism industry. The award, presented in December 2023, underscored Carrico’s dedication, innovation and leadership in promoting the tourism industry.

recipient was Dr. Sacha Sharp, ’10.

Learn more about the recipients by scanning the QR code below or by visiting murraystate.edu/distinguishedalumni.

Masonic Homes Kentucky recently elected Keith Dreier, ’76, as board chair effective in January. Dreier, who has served the board for more than 13 years, now leads the group of six elected Grand Lodge officers and 15 elected Kentucky Masons, who provide counsel and direct Masonic’s mission and vision.

Murray State University Executive Director of Development

Dr. Tina Bernot, ’14, ’21, has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who. Professionals profiled in all Marquis Who’s Who biographical volumes are selected based on factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility and prominence in their chosen field. Dr. Bernot is responsible for spearheading all private fundraising initiatives for the University, a role she has held since 2016.

Matt Markgraf, ’08, ’12, was recently appointed to the position of strategic partnership/alliance manager at Audio-Technica in the move to expand the company’s global focus on certifications and integrations with third-party manufacturers. Markgraf is a two-time Murray State graduate earning a Bachelor of Science in Theatre and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing.

Steven David Cindy Griner

Richard Heath Popeye Jones Dr. Sacha Sharp

ALUMNI

The newly-endowed Steve and Sherry Burke scholarship fund at Murray State was made possible by a generous gift from Steve, ’78, and Sherry, ’76, ’79, ’81, Burke. This new fund will provide financial support for Murray State juniors and seniors to help enable them to successfully complete a four-year degree.

In honor of Black History Month, the Murray State University Residential College Association (RCA) partnered with the Murray State University Alumni Association Black Alumni Network to host a book drive benefiting children and families impacted by deadly tornadoes in both Mayfield, Kentucky, and Clarksville, Tennessee. The students collected books featuring multicultural authors, illustrations, storylines and characters using drop boxes throughout campus. Alumni from around the country participated by ordering books online. The drive brought in more than 100 new and gently used books which will be distributed to children in the two communities thanks to the help of alumni working within the impacted school systems. Carrie McGinnis, Murray State University director of alumni relations, is pictured in the center, surrounded by (from left to right) RCA Executive Committee members Jaylon Taggart, Scottlynn Ballard and Bryce Drake.

FINN Partners has promoted Nate West, ’07, a leader in its Southeast health group, to partner. Starting as an account coordinator at FINN Partners in 2008, Nate became a communications expert. According to FINN’s announcement of West’s new role, he has been critical to the Southeast health team and has advanced complex initiatives and programs for clients including Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Tivity Health and Interwell Health.

Shea Pierce, ’16, has been selected as the Visual Caption Head for the Seattle Cascades Drum Corps for the 2024 season. The Seattle Cascades is a traveling non-profit youth drum corps covering the country on a 13,000-mile tour. The group, made up of mostly high school and college students, starts spring training in the northwest in June, tours the country for the summer and ends with a performance at the Drum Corps International World Championships in Indianapolis in August.

Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business alumnus David Dill, ’90, was awarded the B’nai B’rith International Charles S. Lauer National Healthcare Award during an event in Washington, D.C. in November 2023. This prestigious honor is awarded to leaders in the U.S. healthcare industry who set the standard for health and education through their dedication to community service, excellence in leadership and outstanding philanthropic commitment.

Dill is chairman and chief executive officer of Lifepoint Health, a diversified healthcare delivery network with sites throughout the country. He currently serves as a member of the Murray State University Foundation Board of Trustees and is the national campaign chair for Murray State University’s Be Bold: Forever Blue and Gold Centennial Campaign. Murray State President Dr. Bob Jackson, ’85, attended the ceremony to offer congratulations on behalf of Murray State.

The Kentucky Bar Association named Keith Cartwright, ’80, ’83, as the 2024 Attorney of the Year. The honor signifies Cartwright’s exemplary contribution to the legal profession and his unwavering commitment to serving his clients and community with the highest level of integrity and expertise. Cartwright is a partner in the firm Frymire, Evans, Peyton, Teague & Cartwright, PLLC, based in Madisonville, Kentucky.

Kirk Smith, ’98, recently started a new role as chief of staff for Cisco’s CX Americas. Since the company’s inception, Cisco engineers have been leaders in the development of Internet Protocol-based networking technologies. In addition to its products, Cisco provides a broad range of service offerings, including technical support and advanced services.

Daffney Moore, ’97, has been named senior director of economic development for Beyond Housing, a nationally-recognized leader in community development, celebrated for its profound impact on creating sustainable and thriving communities. In her new role Moore will focus on spearheading residential and commercial projects within the 24:1 area of St. Louis to advance the goal of driving transformative change and uplifting the communities they serve. Moore serves as the president of the Murray State University Alumni Association Black Alumni Network.

The new Nashville Kats Arena Football League franchise recently announced that Murray State alumnus Chip Hoback will serve as the team’s public address announcer during the upcoming season. Hoback, who is the principal owner of Thoroughbred Thought Leaders Business and IT Consulting Group and founder and president of the Kentucky Colonels of middle Tennessee, has served as public address announcer for the Tennessee Titans, Tennessee State University and the 2024 Ohio Valley Conference men’s basketball tournament in Evansville, Indiana.

United States Air Force Technical Sergeant Max Crofton, ’17, who plays tuba in the United States Air Force Ceremonial Brass Band stationed at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., had the opportunity to perform at the White House providing music during the holiday season. The Ceremonial Brass features 41 active-duty musicians and provides musical support for funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, arrivals for foreign heads of state at the White House and Pentagon, patriotic programs and change of command, retirement and awards ceremonies.

Murray State University professor Dr. Jessica Naber, ’02, has been named director of the University’s Honors College. Naber will replace Dr. Warren Edminster, who will return to full-time teaching in the Department of English and Philosophy and will remain involved with the Honors College through teaching seminars and various programs. Naber earned a Murray State honors diploma in 2002. She has served for over a decade on the Honors Committee, advised numerous Honors theses and was the president of the Honors College Alumni Advisory Board in 2022-23.

Tommy Lewis, ’86, has established an endowed scholarship at Murray State for business majors from Livingston, Lyon and Marshall counties in Kentucky. Lewis was inspired to create this scholarship to help students such as himself and give back to the institution that helped launch him into a highly successful business career.

Late last year, Stephanie Miller, ’10, ’12, (pictured right) was honored with the 2023 Marion Martin Award, presented annually by the National Safety Council to outstanding women safety professionals who have achieved professional excellence and helped pave the way for other women in the profession. Miller, a safety and health manager for critical projects and waste operations at United Cleanup Oak Ridge (UCOR), was honored during the National Safety Conference Safety Congress & Expo. UCOR manages environmental cleanup for the Department of Energy at the Oak Ridge Reservation in Tennessee.

Kacey Stafford, ’00, owner of Found Studio Shop, was featured in the March issue of Baltimore Magazine for the expansion of her store in the Lauraville area of Maryland. Her shop features gifts and home goods ranging from jewelry and chocolate to bath and body products, pillows and decorative housewares, in addition to children’s items, much of which is locally sourced from Baltimore-based artists.