Dr. David Whaley recognized as a Kentucky Colonel
By Jillian Smith | Jun 15, 2026
MURRAY, Ky. — Dr. David Whaley, dean of the Murray State University College of Education and Human Services (COEHS), was recognized as a Kentucky Colonel during the Murray State University Board of Regents meeting on June 12.
The Kentucky Colonel designation is the Commonwealth's highest civilian honor. Awarded by the Governor of Kentucky, it recognizes individuals whose service, leadership and dedication have positively impacted the lives of others and strengthened communities across the state. The honor is reserved for Kentuckians and friends of Kentucky whose contributions reflect a commitment to service, goodwill and the betterment of the Commonwealth.
Whaley received the distinction in recognition of more than 50 years of dedicated service to education and the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Throughout his distinguished career, he has served as a high school teacher, professor, director, assistant dean and dean, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to student success and educational excellence.
Since becoming dean of the College of Education and Human Services in 2012, Whaley has championed initiatives designed to strengthen educator preparation, expand partnerships with school districts and address workforce needs across the region. Under his leadership, the college established Professional Development Schools, creating deeper collaborations between Murray State and local school districts while providing teacher candidates with meaningful, hands-on clinical experiences. He has also supported innovative teacher apprenticeship pathways to strengthen Kentucky's educator workforce and address critical teacher shortages.
Dr. Samir Patel, assistant dean of the College of Education and Human Services, said Whaley's leadership has transformed the college while creating lasting opportunities for students, educators and communities throughout the Commonwealth.
Patel noted that Whaley's vision has strengthened partnerships between Murray State and regional school districts, expanded clinical experiences for future educators and positioned the college as a leader in addressing workforce challenges facing Kentucky schools.
"Being named a Kentucky Colonel is one of the Commonwealth's most distinguished honors, recognizing individuals whose service and leadership have made a lasting difference in the lives of others," Patel said. "Dean Whaley exemplifies the very qualities this honor represents. Through his visionary leadership, he has strengthened partnerships with school districts, expanded opportunities for future educators and championed innovative solutions to address workforce needs across Kentucky. His commitment to students, educators and communities has left an enduring impact on our region, and I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition."
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Whaley is known for his kindness, humility, humor and genuine care for others. His influence extends far beyond the classroom and administrative offices, reflected in the countless students, educators and community members he has mentored and supported throughout his career.
The Kentucky Colonel honor recognizes not only Whaley's professional achievements but also a lifetime of service, leadership and dedication to the values of education, community and public service. His contributions have helped shape generations of students and educators while strengthening communities across the Commonwealth.