Murray State University hosts successful second phase of its strategic planning process
By MSU Public Relations | Sep 17, 2026
MURRAY, Ky. — Murray State University concluded a successful second phase of its strategic planning process on Sept. 16 as the strategic planning committee, comprised of more than 40 campus and community members, met at the Curris Center for a full day of preparation and training.
Led by the three strategic plan co-chairs: Chris Wooldridge, Faculty and Director of the Center for Economic and Entrepreneurial Development in the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business; Dr. Ben Littlepage, Professor of Higher Education and Student Affairs, Department of Educational Studies, Leadership, and Counseling in the College of Education and Human Services; and Dr. Elise Kieffer, Program Director and Assistant Professor of Non-Profit Leadership Studies in the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business, the training session guided the committee to understand the conceptual and practical framework of the strategic planning process, learn how to engage stakeholders collaboratively, and grow a greater sense of ownership of the process and the momentum to move forward.
The committee began the morning hearing remarks given by Murray State President Dr. Ron K. Patterson, other members of University leadership, and the three co-chairs. Later in the day, Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education President Dr. Aaron Thompson and Executive Vice President and General Counsel Travis Powell provided insightful updates.
Earlier this year, Murray State announced the official launch of a comprehensive strategic plan and process that will serve as the vision and roadmap for the institution over the next three years.
Upcoming phases of the process include stakeholder engagement sessions, data synthesis, visioning and priority setting, strategy development and operationalization, with the goal of launching the strategic plan in July 2027.
“Our strategic planning process is about bringing people together to listen, learn and work collaboratively to shape the future of Murray State University,” said President Dr. Ron K. Patterson. “The participation and engagement of our strategic planning committee, along with our faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners, will be essential to developing a plan that reflects who we are, where we want to go and the opportunities ahead of us. I appreciate the leadership of our co-chairs and the commitment of everyone involved in this important work. This process is about more than developing a document — it is about building shared ownership around a clear vision and priorities that will strengthen Murray State, enhance the student experience and position our University for continued success in the years ahead.”
For more information on Murray State University’s Strategic Plan and planning process,
please visit murraystate.edu/strategic-