Murray State University’s College of Education and Human Services honors Tim McGinnis with Outstanding Alumnus Service Award

By Jillian Smith | Oct 19, 2026

MURRAY, Ky. — The Murray State University College of Education and Human Services (COEHS) honored Tim McGinnis, a longtime educator, school administrator and community leader, as its Outstanding Alumnus during the college’s annual Homecoming Breakfast on Saturday, Oct. 17.

A two-time Murray State graduate, McGinnis earned a master’s degree in secondary education with an emphasis in guidance in 1980 and completed an education specialist program comprising 30 graduate hours beyond the master’s degree in 1983, along with additional coursework in public school administration.

Throughout his career, McGinnis dedicated more than three decades to public education, serving as a classroom teacher, principal, assistant superintendent and superintendent. His commitment to students and community service has continued well beyond his retirement.

McGinnis’ passion for education began during his college years, when he spent nine summers working at the West Kentucky 4-H Camp in Dawson Springs. Teaching boating and canoeing to young campers helped shape his desire to pursue a career working with students.

He began his professional career in 1977 at Christian County Middle School, where he taught mathematics and industrial arts for 12 years. During that time, he also drove a school bus before and after school, an experience that deepened his understanding of the challenges students faced outside the classroom and the importance of building relationships with their families.

In 1989, McGinnis transitioned into administration as assistant principal and athletic director at North Drive Middle School in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Two years later, he became principal of Lacy Elementary School—also in Hopkinsville—where he had once been a student. His tenure coincided with the implementation of the Kentucky Education Reform Act, which introduced significant changes to public education across the Commonwealth.

McGinnis later advanced into district leadership with Christian County Public Schools, serving as director of finance and assistant superintendent. In these roles, he oversaw district operations, including finances, personnel, facilities, transportation and food services.

In 2000, after 23 years with Christian County Public Schools, McGinnis was named superintendent of Trigg County Public Schools, a position he held for 10 years.

During his tenure, he focused on strengthening academic achievement and establishing high expectations for students and educators. Drawing on the community’s competitive spirit, McGinnis challenged the district to become one of the four highest-performing school districts academically within the West Kentucky Educational Cooperative, a goal the district ultimately achieved.

“We didn't want anybody to beat us in football or basketball or track or anything,” McGinnis recalled. “And I said, why would we want anybody to beat us academically?”

McGinnis considers the district’s academic growth among his most meaningful accomplishments, demonstrating what students and educators could achieve through a shared vision and high expectations.

Although his career took him into district leadership, McGinnis credits his classroom experience with shaping his approach to administration. His leadership philosophy emphasized three principles: relationships, relevance and rigor, along with a commitment to ensuring every school employee felt valued and respected.

“The hardest job in any public school setting is the classroom,” McGinnis said. “As a school administrator, I always tried to show my respect and appreciation for the classroom teacher because that’s where the rubber meets the road.”

After retiring from full-time service in 2010, McGinnis continued supporting public education through interim leadership positions in Christian County, including serving as an elementary principal, transportation director and technology director. In 2019, he returned to Trigg County Public Schools for six months as interim superintendent. He also spent time tutoring students in mathematics and life skills.

Beyond his professional career, McGinnis remains actively involved in community service. A member of the Cadiz Rotary Club for more than 25 years, he has served as club president and helped lead its annual fundraising auction, which raises more than $400,000 to support scholarships, educational opportunities and other community needs.

He also serves on the Trigg County 4-H Council and the Trigg County Middle and High School Youth Services Center Council, supporting initiatives that provide resources and opportunities for students and families.

Additionally, McGinnis holds leadership roles at Blackbridge United Methodist Church and within the Kentucky Conference of the United Methodist Church. Through his church, he has helped organize appreciation meals recognizing teachers, administrators, bus drivers, custodians and other school employees throughout Trigg County.

For McGinnis, these commitments reflect a lifelong belief in the importance of relationships, respect and service.

“I hope people remember me as a person who is kind and respectful,” McGinnis said. “It’s about relationships.”

McGinnis also maintains a strong connection to Murray State, where education has become a family tradition. He and his wife, Carrie, have four children and five grandchildren. The couple regularly attends University athletic events, alumni gatherings and campus celebrations, and McGinnis frequently volunteers alongside his wife at alumni events.

Reflecting on his selection as Outstanding Alumnus, McGinnis expressed gratitude for the recognition and appreciation for the educators who have dedicated their careers to serving others.

“It’s such an honor, and I’m humbled to have even been considered,” McGinnis said. “I know so many fellow educators who are deserving because of their work, their commitment and the impact they’ve had.”

He also credited COEHS for its longstanding role in preparing educators who serve schools and communities throughout the region.

“I’m proud of our college, and I’m proud of the many exceptional educators that Murray State has helped mold and put out in western Kentucky and other places,” McGinnis said.

The Outstanding Alumni recognition celebrates graduates whose professional accomplishments, leadership and dedication to service reflect the college’s mission of preparing individuals to make a lasting impact in their professions and communities.