Dean David Whaley retires after 14 years of leadership at Murray State University
By Jillian Smith | Aug 26, 2026
MURRAY, Ky. — After 14 years of leadership and service, Dr. David Whaley is retiring as dean of Murray State University’s College of Education and Human Services (COEHS), leaving a lasting impact on the College, its students and the education profession across the region and Commonwealth.
During his tenure, Whaley helped lead COEHS through significant growth and institutional change, including coordinating the merger that created the current College of Education and Human Services. He also supported the establishment of the Doctorate of Education in P-20 and Community Leadership and guided the College through successful national, state and specialized accreditation efforts.
Whaley’s leadership extended well beyond campus. He served as a member and later chair of the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board, contributing to statewide decisions affecting educator preparation and the teaching profession. He also helped strengthen partnerships with regional P-12 schools and superintendents, establish Professional Development School partnerships and expand international student-teaching opportunities in Belize.
“Serving as dean of the College of Education and Human Services has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” Whaley said. “What I am most proud of is not any single accomplishment, but what we have built together. This College is defined by people who care deeply about our students, our professions and the communities we serve. I leave this role incredibly grateful for those who made these 14 years so meaningful and confident in what comes next for COEHS.”
Under Whaley’s leadership, COEHS also strengthened traditions and initiatives that brought the College community together, including the COEHS Scholarship Banquet, Student Picnic, Faculty Incentive Grant program and advisory committees representing students, school leaders and College leadership.
“Dr. Whaley’s 14 years of leadership have made a lasting difference at Murray State University and throughout the region and Commonwealth,” Murray State President Dr. Ron K. Patterson said. “His commitment to our students, faculty and staff, and to the preparation of outstanding educators has strengthened the College of Education and Human Services in meaningful and enduring ways. We are grateful for his many years of service, his collaborative leadership and the countless lives he has influenced through his work. We wish David all the best in his retirement and thank him for the legacy he leaves at Murray State.”
Through periods of financial and institutional change, Whaley remained focused on strengthening the College, supporting faculty and staff, expanding opportunities for students and building relationships throughout the region.
Whaley emphasized that the accomplishments of the past 14 years have never belonged to one person.
“Lasting accomplishments are rarely the work of one individual,” Whaley said. “They come from shared vision, strong relationships and people working together toward a common purpose. I am extraordinarily proud of what we have accomplished together and deeply grateful to everyone who made it possible.”