Record generosity creates transformational opportunities for Murray State University students

By MSU Public Relations | Jul 24, 2026

Donors respond to President Ron K. Patterson's Students First vision with historic support

MURRAY, Ky. — For Murray State University President Dr. Ron K. Patterson, every decision begins with one question: How does this benefit our students?

That Students First vision has inspired an extraordinary response from Murray State University's alumni, friends and supporters. During the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, donors made record investments that will expand scholarships, strengthen academic programs and create life-changing opportunities for current and future Racers.

The Murray State University Office of Development reports more than $7.6 million in new documented commitments for future support and a record $13.9 million in cash gifts received from nearly 3,500 individual donors. More than $2.7 million of those gifts will directly support students through scholarships, helping make a Murray State education more affordable and accessible.

"Every gift tells a student, 'We believe in you.' That's what makes these results so meaningful," Patterson said. "Our alumni and friends are investing in opportunity—opening doors through scholarships, strengthening academic programs and ensuring our students have the resources they need to thrive. I am deeply grateful for the generosity of the Racer family and for the confidence they continue to place in Murray State University and, most importantly, in our students."

The record-setting year also reflected growing engagement from new supporters. Nearly 650 first-time donors made gifts during 2025–26, including almost 70 organizations that partnered with Murray State for the first time.

"Every donor has a reason for giving, but they all share one thing in common—they want to make a difference in the lives of our students," said Dr. Tina Bernot, vice president for advancement and external relations. "Whether it's a first-time gift or the twentieth consecutive year of support, each act of generosity creates opportunities that might not otherwise exist. We are incredibly grateful to every donor who chose to invest in Murray State this year."

Bernot also recognized the University's most loyal supporters.

"It is especially meaningful to celebrate the hundreds of donors whose faithful generosity has continued for decades through membership in the John W. Carr Society," she said. "Their commitment has helped generations of students succeed, and we're equally excited to welcome hundreds of new donors who are beginning that same tradition of giving."

Four of the University's five largest gifts during the fiscal year were estate gifts from Murray State alumni—an enduring testament to the lifelong connection Racers have with their alma mater. Overall, Racer alumni accounted for more than half of all donors and contributed nearly $8 million in support of the University.

"One of the things that makes Murray State so special is that our alumni never stop caring about this University," said Carrie McGinnis, director of alumni relations. "They remember the professors who challenged them, the friendships they formed and the opportunities they received. Their generosity reflects what it means to be part of the Racer family—they want today's students and future generations of Racers to enjoy those same life-changing experiences."

Donors demonstrated their commitment to student success across every area of the University. The Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business, the Hutson College of Agriculture and the College of Education and Human Services each received more than $1 million in support. Racer Athletics also experienced a record year of philanthropic giving.

"It is inspiring to see donors supporting every corner of our University—from scholarships and academic colleges to research, innovation, WKMS and Racer Athletics," Patterson said. "These gifts are an investment in people. They allow us to recruit outstanding students, support them throughout their educational journey and prepare graduates who will make a difference in Kentucky and beyond. Their generosity strengthens the entire Murray State experience."

The Murray State University Foundation, Inc., the independent nonprofit organization responsible for accepting, investing and distributing charitable gifts on behalf of the University, reported that, pending completion of its annual audit, donor funding provided nearly $8 million in direct support to the University during the fiscal year.

"Every gift entrusted to the Foundation represents someone's belief in Murray State students and their future," said Dr. David Durr, president of the Murray State University Foundation, Inc. "We take that responsibility seriously. Our role is to ensure each gift is carefully invested, managed and distributed exactly as the donor intended so it creates the greatest possible impact for students, faculty and academic programs."

Durr noted that, working alongside the Murray State University Office of Development, the Foundation established more than 70 new charitable funds during the year.

"Each new fund represents a donor's desire to leave a lasting legacy at Murray State," Durr said. "Those funds will provide scholarships and a margin of excellence through enhancing classrooms and laboratories, supporting internships and faculty excellence, and creating opportunities for students for generations to come."

Murray State University Advancement, which includes the Offices of Development and Alumni Relations, connects alumni and friends with opportunities to invest in the University's mission and the success of its students.

To learn more about making a lasting impact on Murray State students and programs, visit murraystate.edu/giving, call the Office of Development at 270-809-3001, or contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 270-809-5600.