Murray State University announces establishment of the Wes Kerr Cyber National Advisory Board Scholarship Endowment

MURRAY, Ky. — Murray State University’s Cyber National Advisory Board and the Murray State University Foundation announce the establishment of the Wes Kerr Cyber National Advisory Board Scholarship to memorialize Kerr’s legacy as a Murray State alumnus, member of the Cyber National Advisory Board, and supporter of the Cybersecurity and Network Management (CNM) program.

Wes Kerr, a native of Henderson, Kentucky, earned his bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications Systems Management (predecessor to CNM) in 2005. As a student, Kerr was involved with University Housing as a Residential Advisor. Also served as an officer of the Association of Telecommunications Systems Management, the student organization for Murray State's Telecommunications Systems Management program. As a student, Wireless and Security were the focus of his studies, with a strong interest in business applications of those skills. Following graduation, Kerr went to work for ConnectKentucky and later Connected Nation, Inc., where he served as senior manager of Geographic Information Systems, manager of provider relations, senior manager of technical services and director of community solutions, among other roles.

“For more than a decade, Wes served on our National Advisory Board, and our program wouldn't be where it is without him,” Dr. Michael Ramage, director of the Murray State Cyber Education and Research Center, shared. “No matter what was happening with Wes, he was still present and helping others. I am grateful for his friendship and support, and I am grateful that this will keep his memory alive for years to come.” 

In 2005, Kerr married his wife, Melody, who earned a degree in elementary education from Murray State in 2006. They have two beautiful daughters, Ally and Eva. Kerr was actively involved in his church, where he served as a deacon and an adult Sunday School class teacher. He loved watching and listening to his daughter Ally sing and cheering on his daughter Eva at the ballfield. Kerr loved woodworking and traveling with his family. He was also actively involved in corporate philanthropy and serving charitable organizations. Additionally, Kerr was a member of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels.

“Wes will continue his legacy of impacting the next generation and his love for Murray State University!” said Melody Kerr. “To whomever, in the many years to come, that will receive this scholarship, I know Wes would be so proud of you!”

Representatives from Community Financial Services Bank (CFSB) were on Murray State’s campus to present a $1,500 contribution toward the scholarship fund at Security Matters 2026 on April 23.

Contributions to the Wes Kerr Cyber National Advisory Board Scholarship can be made by contacting the Murray State University Office of Development at 270-809-3001 or by making a secure gift online at murraystate.edu/giving. For more information, please contact Director of Development Kevin Munsey at kmunsey1@murraystate.edu.

Since its founding through Kentucky’s Programs of Distinction initiative in 1997, Murray State’s cybersecurity program has grown into a nationally recognized leader, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees, accelerated master’s pathways, and specialized certificates. Murray State University has been designated as a Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and the Department of War since 2019.

Murray State’s Cyber Education and Research Center continues to provide leadership in education, research, workforce development and community outreach while helping shape the future of cybersecurity across Kentucky and the broader region.

Learn more about Murray State’s CNM program at murraystate.edu/cyber.