Coach Mark Brady Scholarship supports future educators

By Jillian Smith | Jun 16, 2026

MURRAY, Ky. — Two Murray High School graduates pursuing careers in education have been selected as recipients of the Coach Mark Brady Scholarship, a scholarship established to support local students as they prepare to become the next generation of teachers.

Brandon Daughaday and Madelyn Sugg, members of the Murray High School Class of 2026, will receive the scholarship as they begin their studies at Murray State University this fall. Daughaday plans to major in secondary education, while Sugg will pursue a degree in middle school education through Murray State’s College of Education and Human Services.

Since its establishment in 2019, the Coach Mark Brady Scholarship has helped local students reduce the cost of earning their degrees while encouraging future educators to remain committed to serving their schools and communities. Including this year’s recipients, 11 Murray High School graduates have benefited from the scholarship. Previous recipients include William Church, Isaac Gallimore, Sarah Jacobs, Hannah Mohler, Jayce Riley, Christian Watkins, Annabel Wilcher, Malaika Gachoka and Bella Karns.

“Coach Brady is adamant about supporting the future generation of teachers,” said Jenni Todd, director of development at Murray State University. “He has dedicated his life to education, and this scholarship reflects his continued commitment to investing in local students and strengthening the future of the profession.”

Established through an endowment gift to the Murray State University Foundation, the scholarship awards $1,000 annually to Murray High School graduates attending Murray State. Preference is given to students enrolled in the College of Education and Human Services who plan to teach in K–12 schools after graduation.

For Brady, the scholarship represents an opportunity to give back to a profession that shaped his life and career.

“My goal is to help the young people of the Murray Independent School System who want to be teachers,” Brady said. “We’re at a crossroads within the education community, and if there’s anything I can do to help create great educators, I really want to be a part of it. It’s all about leaving the world better than you found it.”

A 1967 Murray State graduate, Brady earned Bachelor of Science degrees in physical education and history, followed by a Master of Arts in education in 1971 and a Rank I degree in school administration in 1972.

Over a distinguished 24-year career at Murray High School, Brady taught world history, American government, civics, driver’s education and physical education. He also served as a football coach, boys’ basketball coach, girls’ softball coach, student council sponsor, assistant principal and athletic director, impacting generations of students both inside and outside the classroom.

Dr. David Whaley, dean of the College of Education and Human Services, said the scholarship reflects the strong partnership between Murray State, local schools and community leaders who are committed to addressing the growing need for highly qualified teachers. He added that support from alumni and donors like Brady helps create opportunities for students while strengthening the educator workforce across the region.

"Scholarships like this do more than help students afford college—they strengthen the future of education in our region," Whaley said. "Coach Brady has spent a lifetime investing in young people, and through this scholarship, he continues to inspire and support the next generation of educators. We are proud to welcome Brandon and Madelyn to the College of Education and Human Services and look forward to the impact they will have in classrooms and communities across Kentucky."

For more information about the Coach Mark Brady Scholarship or other scholarship opportunities at Murray State University, contact the Scholarship Office at 270-809-3225 or msu.scholarships@murraystate.edu.

Contributions to the Coach Mark Brady Scholarship Endowment may be made through the Murray State University Office of Development at 270-809-3001 or online at murraystate.edu/give.