Why do you value MSU?
The range of quality educational experiences we offer. A student of modest means can spend a freshman year on campus, a sophomore semester in Germany, Japan or Spain, a summer internship with Disney in Florida, and a Discover China experience in Beijing. It's exciting to see the transformation in capability, confidence and vision that these experiences produce.

What motivates you to give?
Two reasons. First, in a era of uncertain public funding of higher education, private support will be the difference between good institutions and excellent ones. Murray State is an excellent institution with even greater aspirations. We need that support. Second, Murray State's faculty and staff are dedicated professionals who pursue that vision of excellence each and every day. If we choose to support that effort financially as well, it enhances our commitment and makes the value of investing in Murray State University even more obvious to external donors.

What do you enjoy most about working for MSU?
I enjoy most the satisfaction in knowing what I do truly impacts the lives of students in a positive way. In addition to the knowledge and resources I am able to share, I can see what a difference it makes to encourage and support students in their efforts.

Why do you value MSU?
I value MSU because I received a high-quality undergraduate education here. I was given many opportuntieis and experiences that enhanced my education. I want those opportunities to be available for future generations of students.

What motivates you to give?
My motivation is two-fold. First, I give because when I was a student, the university gave to me. I received several scholarships when I was a broke single-parent, adult student. Those scholarships motivated me to keep studying and working hard to earn the best grades I could. I want to give that opportunity to other students. Incidentally, I regularly receive requests from my graduate school but I have never donated to them. My loyalty lies with MSU!
Second, I worked at a small, private college prior to returning to Murray. At that campus, it was very carefully explained to me how important it is for a large percentage of the college employees to donate to the college. It was explained that the dollar amount of the donation was not as significant as the fact that the director of Development could show outside donors that a large percentage of employees believed in the institution enough to invest their money in it.

Started college at age 28.
At age 32 - graduated from MSU in 1989, Magna Cum Laude, BS Public Relations.
Hall Director - Woods and White Halls.
Member of Omicron Delta Kappa and Gamma Beta Phi honor societies
Who's Who
Outstanding Young Woman of America
Founded the adult student club at MSU (then known as the NETO club)
Founder of Dog Days

Earned MA in Student Develpment at Appalachian State University, Boone, NC, 1991
Director of Residence Life, Lees-McRae College, Banner Elk, NC, 1991-1994
Educational Talent Search, MSU, 1994-1998
Student Support Services, MSU, 1998-current
Married, husband John
Daughter, Stephanie (nee Donnelly) McDonald, graduated MSU, May 2006
Step-son, Erick, and granddaughter, Madison, age 9