40 Facts About Murray State

Founding and Early History

Murray State University has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Let's explore some key facts about its origins and early development.

1. Murray State University was founded in 1922 after the passage of Senate Bill 14 by the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. This bill aimed to address the growing need for professional teachers.

2. Rainey T. Wells, the founder, played a crucial role in convincing the Normal School Commission to choose Murray as the site for the western normal school. Wells later became the second president of the university.

3. Dr. John W. Carr was the first president of Murray State University, elected on November 26, 1922. His home is located just 285 feet southwest of the university campus.

Academic Growth and Structure

From its modest beginnings, Murray State has grown into a comprehensive institution with a wide range of academic offerings.

4. The university started with 202 students and has since expanded to over 10,000 students enrolled in various programs.

5. Murray State University is organized into five academic colleges and two schools, including the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business and the Jesse D. Jones College of Science, Engineering, and Technology.

6. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) since 1928, the university also holds program-specific accreditations in fields like art, chemistry, and nursing.

7. The main campus spans 236 acres in Murray, a city with a population of 16,600, located in the Jackson Purchase lake area of west Kentucky.

8. Degrees offered range from associate to doctoral levels, making it a versatile institution for students seeking higher education.

Notable Alumni

Murray State University has produced many successful alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields.

9. Isaiah Canaan, an NBA player, is one of the notable athletes who graduated from Murray State. He played for the Houston Rockets.

10. Kenyan Wesley Korir, a professional runner, has competed in major marathons and is also a member of the Kenyan Parliament.

11. Chrishell Staus, a theater graduate, found fame with roles on popular soap operas like “All My Children” and “Days of Our Lives.”

12. Forrest C. Pogue, a 1931 graduate, served as the official U.S. Army historian during World War II, contributing invaluable historical documentation.

13. Jude Deveraux, a 1970 graduate, is a renowned romance novelist with 37 New York Times best-seller novels.

14. W. Earl Brown, a 1986 graduate, has had a successful acting career with roles in shows like HBO’s “Deadwood” and FX’s “American Horror Story.”

15. Kirk Rueter, a 1991 graduate, retired as the most successful left-handed pitcher in San Francisco Giants history.

Campus Life and Community Engagement

Murray State University offers a vibrant campus life and is deeply engaged with the local community.

16. Student life is diverse and vibrant, with a range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that cater to different interests.

17. The university's live mascot is Racer One, while Dunker is the costumed mascot, representing the university's spirit and pride in its athletic programs.

18. Murray State is part of the NCAA Division I – MVC (Missouri Valley Conference), providing students with opportunities to compete at a high level.

19. The university consistently outranks all Kentucky public universities in graduate and alumni satisfaction, according to a Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education survey.

20. Ranked as a leading university by U.S. News & World Report for 15 years, Murray State is also considered a “Best Deal” by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance.

21. Various forms of financial aid are available, including scholarships, grants, and loans, making higher education more accessible.

22. Admission requirements vary by program, generally including specific academic criteria like GPA and standardized test scores.

23. The university has over 10,000 students enrolled, contributing to a rich academic environment.

24. A teaching faculty of over 400 members ensures personalized educational experiences for students.

25. The university library offers a vast array of resources, including books, journals, and digital databases.

Facilities and Community Support

The facilities and community support at Murray State University play a crucial role in its success.

26. The 236-acre main campus includes various facilities, such as the Administration Building, constructed with a $100,000 grant from Calloway County citizens.

27. Community support was significant in establishing the university, with local citizens donating $17,000 to acquire land and $100,000 for the Administration Building.

28. A historical marker on campus commemorates the founding of Murray State University, providing a glimpse into its rich history.

Research and Academic Excellence

Murray State University is committed to academic excellence and offers numerous research opportunities.

29. A wide range of academic programs are available, including those in business, science, engineering, and technology.

30. Students have numerous research opportunities, allowing for hands-on learning experiences that enhance academic and professional development.

31. The Susan E. Bauernfeind Wellness Center provides health and wellness services to both students and the broader community.

32. Several research centers focus on fields like engineering, science, and technology, offering hands-on research opportunities.

33. Institutional accreditation by SACSCOC ensures that the university meets rigorous standards of quality in higher education.

Alumni Network and Achievements

The strong alumni network and achievements of Murray State graduates reflect the university's impact.

34. The alumni network extends globally, with many alumni achieving great success in their respective fields.

35. Isaiah Canaan earned multiple awards during his time at Murray State, including OVC Freshman of the Year and two-time OVC Player of the Year.

36. Kenyan Wesley Korir founded the Kenyan Kids Foundation, aiming to eradicate poverty through education, healthcare, and self-sufficiency.

37. Chrishell Staus has been involved with organizations like Upward Bound House, working to eliminate homelessness.

38. Forrest C. Pogue's contributions as a historian reflect the university's commitment to producing well-rounded graduates.

39. Jude Deveraux's success in the literary world is a testament to the university's strong English and creative writing programs.

40. W. Earl Brown's versatility in acting showcases the diverse academic offerings at Murray State University.

Murray State University: A Legacy of Excellence

Murray State University, founded in 1922, has grown from 202 students to over 10,000. With five academic colleges and two schools, it offers a wide range of degrees, from associate to doctoral. The university's commitment to quality education is evident through its accreditation by SACSCOC and numerous program-specific accreditations. Notable alumni like Isaiah Canaan, Wesley Korir, and Chrishell Staus highlight the diverse success of its graduates. The vibrant campus life, strong community engagement, and extensive research opportunities make it a standout institution. Consistently ranked as a leading university, Murray State provides a supportive environment for both academic and personal growth. With a rich history and a promising future, Murray State University continues to be a beacon of excellence in higher education. Whether you're a prospective student or an alum, there's no denying the impact and legacy of this remarkable institution.