Racer Young Alumni
Outstanding Young Alumni Award
Each year the Murray State University Alumni Association Young Alumni Network selects the Top 22 Under 40 class, honoring the most influential, innovative and inspiring Murray State alumni under the age of 40. Members of the class are chosen because they have distinguished themselves among their peers and continue to make a significant impact on the world. Why 22? It is a tribute to more than a century of difference-making since Murray State's founding in 1922. Class members are featured on the Murray State University Alumni and Friends social media platforms.
From that class of 22, one young alum is selected as each year's Outstanding Young Alumni Award winner. The recipient is honored during the annual MSUAA Distinguished Alumni Dinner in April.
Please nominate a Racer today using our online nomination form. Nominations for the next year's class are due annually by December 15, 2025. For
more information, call the Office of Alumni Relations at 800.758.8510 or email msu.raceralumni@murraystate.
Nomination criteria
- Be under the age of 40 and/or graduate of the last decade.
- Have a passion for all things Blue and Gold!
- Have earned an associate, undergraduate or graduate degree from Murray State University.
- Exhibit and embrace Murray State University's mission and core values.
- Demonstrate a lifelong commitment to alma mater.
- Have made a significant impact in their industry and community.
- Be willing to submit a head shot and other biographical information to be used for publicity purposes by Murray State University.
Young Alumni Network
Through the Young Alumni network, we aim to provide engagement opportunities from networking with other fellow Murray State grads, to assisting in the recruitment efforts of future Racers and even cheering on the Racers at tailgates and watch parties! From near and far, Racer Young Alumni can become active members in their own communities by participating in a local chapter near you, in addition to providing critical scholarship support through giving. There are many ways to be involved in the next generation of Racer spirit as brighter days return to the finest place we know. We are connected. We are family. We are Racers. —Christian Barnes, '18, '19, Young Alumni Network President
Join now
There is no additional cost to join the Young Alumni Network. In order to participate, you only need to be a paid member of the Murray State University Alumni Association ($40 annually for single membership/$60 annually for joint membership).
Qualifications
- Graduate of the last decade
- Under 40 and
- Have a passion for all things Blue and Gold!
Mission
The Murray State University Young Alumni Network serves to support recent graduates with programs and communications that are uniquely tailored to your own needs by fostering relationships, facilitating networking activities and creating a fervent culture of giving among Murray State’s young alumni.
Vision
The Murray State University Young Alumni Network seeks to keep our young alumni connected and involved with all things Blue and Gold. Though your time as a student is over, it remains our vision to keep young alumni connected through alumni engagement, student recruitment, university development, and legislative advocacy.
Bylaws
The name of the organization shall be the Murray State University Young Alumni (YA). The governing body of the YA shall be the Murray State University Young Alumni Council (YAC). The Murray State Young Alumni shall be formed as an affinity network affiliated with the Murray State University Alumni Association. Read Bylaws