Dr. Seuss is credited with saying, "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." 

 It is with that grateful attitude that we bring you the final episode of the Racer Alumni Podcast. What started as a centennial project, has been a labor of love over the last 12 months. We've talked to some incredible people, learned a tremendous number of interesting things and benefited from valuable perspectives. As of today, nearly 2,400 Racers have downloaded the podcast and hundreds listen to each episode. To everyone who has listened, participated, promoted and encouraged...THANK YOU! Each episode will be archived in the University Library archives for posterity.  

 All of that said, it is only appropriate that we bookend this experience by talking in our final episode with our very first podcast guest: Murray State President Dr. Bob Jackson, '85. We discuss the many positive changes underway to the look, feel and accessibility of our beautiful campus, the fate of the "big wooden people" in the Curris Center update, the future of Winslow Dining Hall, the special way that Murray State's First Lady, Karen Miller Jackson, '84, impacts our campus community and his ability to effectively lead, the unique perspective that comes with being an alumnus of the institution, the $100 million dollar "Be Bold" capital campaign and how you can be a part of ALL of it. 

 And finally, huge thanks to 2019 alumnus Jordan Lowe. This podcast was Jordan's brainchild, and he voluntarily co-hosted nearly every episode over the last year. He has been a joy to work with and is the proudest of the proud #RacerAlumni family. We could not have done this without him. 

 This podcast was produced with the help of Jim Ray Consulting Services and made possible by members of the Murray State University Alumni Association. Jim is a 1992 Murray State graduate. He can help you with the concept development, implementation, production and distribution of your own podcast, just as he has done for the MSUAA.

Not a current member of the MSUAA? Let's change that! Join today by visiting  murraystate.edu/alumni.

The views and opinions expressed during the Racer Alumni Podcast do not necessarily reflect those of Murray State University, its administration or the faculty at large. The episodes are designed to be inspiring and entertaining.

Laughter is making a return to Lovett Auditorium thanks to a comedy-loving alumnus with a heart for Murray State. Paducah, Kentucky-native Ben Wilson, a 1999 environmental engineering technology alumnus now working as a real estate attorney in Florida, is combining his love for his alma mater with his passion for stand-up comedy in an effort to bring nationally-known talent to western Kentucky. The two-night Kentucky Comedy Festival hits the stage at Murray State’s historic Lovett Auditorium this October 19-20. 

Inspired by Comedy Central’s “South Beach Comedy Festival” in Miami, Wilson began planning the Kentucky Comedy Festival on Murray State’s campus in 2020 with the goal of creating a fun and positive experience for the comedians, the campus community and the local region, and the hope of creating an annual affair. The two-day line-up features eight comedians including Lace Larrabee, Kentucky-native Mark Klein, Brad Upton, Tammy Pescatelli, Katherine Blanford (whose mother was a Murray State alumna), Eric O'Shea, Jasmine Ellis and Kevin Farley, brother of the late “Saturday Night Live” star Chris Farley. Many of the featured comedians can be seen on YouTube's Dry Bar Comedy Channel. 

Ben talks about his love for all things comedy, including an amazing story about how Possum Trot and Monkey's Eyebrow, Kentucky led to a fated friendship with Rodney Dangerfield, and his beloved Bulldogs, appropriately-named Rodney and Farley. 

Proceeds from the event will fund a scholarship that Wilson has established to support students who participate in Murray State University intramural sports. Ben participated in intramural sports as a student, and in 1999 was named Outstanding Senior Man. Realizing as a student himself the impact that extra-curricular activities can have on student retention, success and mental health, Ben established the "Living the Dream with Ben and the Bulldogs Intramural Sports Athletes of the Year Scholarship, which will provide a $1,000 scholarship to both the male and female athletes of the year annually.  Tickets for the Kentucky Comedy Festival are now on sale at www.kentuckycomedyfestival.com. 

This podcast was produced with the help of Jim Ray Consulting Services and made possible by members of the Murray State University Alumni Association. Jim is a 1992 Murray State graduate. He can help you with the concept development, implementation, production and distribution of your own podcast, just as he has done for the MSUAA.

Not a current member of the MSUAA? Let's change that! Join today by visiting  murraystate.edu/alumni.

The views and opinions expressed during the Racer Alumni Podcast do not necessarily reflect those of Murray State University, its administration or the faculty at large. The episodes are designed to be inspiring and entertaining.

The Murray State University Alumni Association recently honored the recipients of Murray State’s 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest honor granted by the MSUAA, which recognizes alumni who have excelled personally and professionally and who have made meaningful contributions at a local, state and national level.

This year’s recipients included: Phyllis Jackson Childs (’98, ’00), a nationally-lauded safety professional, Trisha Clark Cunningham (’86), a leader of one of the country’s largest efforts to feed the hungry, Dr. Brent Mayabb (’95), a globally recognized veterinarian, Dr. James Rudolph (’66, ’69), a Murray State professor emeritus whose work in the equine industry had an impact at home and around the country, and Jimmy Wright (attd.’62-’63), a world-renowned painter and artist.

 In part two of this series, we are bringing the Distinguished Alumni awards program to you, so you can hear the heartfelt stories of our recipients and share a laugh or two. In episode 20, you will hear from Brent, Jim’s wife, Dr. Holly Rudolph (on his behalf), and Jimmy as they weave together the tremendous impact that their shared Murray State experience had on their lives and impressive careers. Each of the recipients comments have been edited somewhat for the sake of time. You can read each of the recipient’s bios and learn more about the nomination and awarding process at murraystate.edu/distinguishedalumni. You can also nominate an alumnus/alumna for one of our annual alumni awards at murraystate.edu/alumni/awards.aspx. 

This podcast was produced with the help of Jim Ray Consulting Services and made possible by members of the Murray State University Alumni Association. Jim is a 1992 Murray State graduate. He can help you with the concept development, implementation, production and distribution of your own podcast, just as he has done for the MSUAA.

Not a current member of the MSUAA? Let's change that! Join today by visiting  murraystate.edu/alumni.

The views and opinions expressed during the Racer Alumni Podcast do not necessarily reflect those of Murray State University, its administration or the faculty at large. The episodes are designed to be inspiring and entertaining.

On Friday, April 21, the Murray State University Alumni Association honored and celebrated Murray State’s 2023 Distinguished Alumni and the 2023 Distinguished Young Alumnus.

The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor granted by the MSUAA, recognizing alumni who have excelled personally and professionally and who have made meaningful contributions at a local, state and national level. Recipients over the years have included Pulitzer Prize and Emmy-winning journalists, renowned authors, research scientists, executives, educators and military leaders. This year, we add a nationally-lauded safety professional for one of America’s largest auto manufacturers, a leader of one of the country’s largest efforts to feed the hungry, a globally-recognized veterinarian, a Murray State professor emeritus who’s work in the equine industry had an impact here at home and nationwide and a word-renowned painter and artist.

They are Phyllis Jackson Childs (’98, ’00), Trisha Clark Cunningham (’86), Dr. Brent Mayabb (’95), Dr. James Rudolph (’66, ’69) and Jimmy Wright (attd.’62-’63)

The 2023 Distinguished Young Alumnus, as chosen by the MSUAA Young Alumni Network from the 2023 Class of the Top 22 Under 40, is on the front lines in the battle against cancer in AstraZeneca’s oncology division: Dominique Hudspeth (’09)

Not everyone can attend the Distinguished Alumni dinner to hear the wonderful stories of our honorees. So, we are bringing them to you. In part one of this two-part series, you’ll hear from Dom, Phyllis and Trisha. They’ll make you laugh and make you cry all while reminding you of why Murray State is such a special place. As you will hear, it is all about relationships. There is even a surprise announcement in the end! During part two, we’ll share remarks from Brent, Jim’s wife, Dr. Holly Rudolph, (Murray State Accounting Professor Emeritus) speaking on Jim’s behalf, and Jimmy Wright. Some of the content has been edited for length, but all of the heart remains. 

You can read each of the recipient’s bios and learn more about the nomination and awarding process at murraystate.edu/distinguishedalumni. You can also nominate an alumnus/alumna for one of our annual alumni awards at murraystate.edu/alumni/awards.aspx.

This podcast was produced with the help of Jim Ray Consulting Services and made possible by members of the Murray State University Alumni Association. Jim is a 1992 Murray State graduate. He can help you with the concept development, implementation, production and distribution of your own podcast, just as he has done for the MSUAA.

Not a current member of the MSUAA? Let's change that! Join today by visiting murraystate.edu/alumni.

The views and opinions expressed during the Racer Alumni Podcast do not necessarily reflect those of Murray State University, its administration or the faculty at large. The episodes are designed to be inspiring and entertaining.

Apologies for our tardiness. A family emergency delayed Episode 18 of the Racer Alumni Podcast. However, we will not apologize for how fabulous this episode is! Did you know that the Murray State University Alumni Association (MSUAA) is made up of active, dues-paying alumni members from all over the world? Did you also know that the work of the MSUAA is guided and directed by a 19-member Board of Governors, made up of active members from all over the region? And, did you further know that the work of the Board of Governors is led by an Executive Committee elected by members of the board? Ok...one last question. Did you know that you can volunteer to serve your University in this capacity? You CAN! 

In this episode, we'll introduce you to the 2022-2023 MSUAA President Gayle Rogers ('10, '15), Immediate-Past President Amber DuVentre ('06, '09), President-Elect Bret Cude ('81) and Vice President Scott Grant ('07, '09). We'll talk about their unique and individual Murray State experiences, fave traditions, what moves them to be of service to their alma mater and why you might consider doing so, as well.

Avoid FOMO! Become an active annual or lifetime member of the MSUAA today at murraystate.edu/alumni. Interested in serving in a leadership capacity? You can learn more about the current members of the board, read about the history, mission, vision and purpose of the MSUAA, view our core pillars and expectations, submit an application to serve and even nominate another Racer alumna or alumnus who you think could have a tremendous impact all in one stop at murraystate.edu/alumni/board. If you have further questions, call the Office of Alumni Relations at 1.800.758.8510 or email Alumni Relations Director Carrie McGinnis at cmcginnis2@murraystate.edu. 

This podcast was produced with the help of Jim Ray Consulting Services and made possible by members of the Murray State University Alumni Association. Jim is a 1992 Murray State graduate. He can help you with the concept development, implementation, production and distribution of your own podcast, just as he has done for the MSUAA.

The views and opinions expressed during the Racer Alumni Podcast do not necessarily reflect those of Murray State University, its administration or the faculty at large. The episodes are designed to be inspiring and entertaining.

 Sigma Alpha Iota’s (SAI) All Campus Sing has showcased the musical talents, dance skills, wardrobe creativity and often, the wicked sense of humor, of Racers across many of the campus’s student organizations for 65 years. And nearly every April since 1958, students, faculty, staff, locals and alumni have crowded the lawn in front of Lovett Auditorium, along with thousands of Racers around the globe tuned-in online, to watch the highly-choreographed musical numbers on Murray State’s most beloved steps. This year's event is Wednesday, April 12, beginning at 3 p.m.

Apart from, maybe, longtime Student Organization Advisor Jeanie Morgan and a handful of others, few Racers have participated in more consecutive All Campus Sings than Murray State Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Dr. Don Robertson, or to those in the know, Dr. R.

Dr. Robertson is joined by Logan Stout (’11, ’15), the ACS Master of Ceremonies who first participated as a student, himself, to chat about some of their favorite ACS memories. Racer Men’s Basketball fans will also recognize Logan as the P.A. announcer during games in the CFSB Center. This year’s All Campus Sing event chairs, Addi Bussen, Aidan Schweitzer and Gena Parker join us to share all of the ways alumni near and far can support the participating student organizations, as well as SAI’s annual philanthropy, People to People, a non-profit organization that provides instruments, music and music accessories to those without access.

For more information regarding all things ACS and SAI, feel free to email allcampussing.sai@gmail.com. To stream the event wherever you are visit murraystate.edu/streaming. And, to provide financial support from anywhere in the world use Cash App $saiiotabeta.

This podcast was produced with the help of Jim Ray Consulting Services and made possible by members of the Murray State University Alumni Association. Jim is a 1992 Murray State graduate. He can help you with the concept development, implementation, production and distribution of your own podcast, just as he has done for the MSUAA.

Not a current member of the MSUAA? Let's change that! Join today by visiting murraystate.edu/alumni.

The views and opinions expressed during the Racer Alumni Podcast do not necessarily reflect those of Murray State University, its administration or the faculty at large. The episodes are designed to be inspiring and entertaining.

Alumna (n.) – a woman who has graduated from or attended an institution.

Alumnae (n.)  – a group of women who have graduated from or attended an institution.

It’s Women’s History Month and girls just wanna have…funds? In the latest episode of the Racer Alumni Podcast, we give Jordan Lowe the week off and make it all about the ladies. We are joined by three Murray State alumnae who are making a difference for the next generation of Racer women. You’ll meet Murray State University Women’s Center and Pride Center Director Abigail Cox (’09, ’12), Development Officer for the University’s College of Fine Arts and Humanities and the Honors College Kala Allen-Dunn (’10, ’17) and Executive Director of Development Dr. Tina Bernot (’14, ’21), and hear more about their unique Murray State experiences. 

Listen in as we talk about how the Women’s Center at Murray State has evolved over time and what this generation of collegiate women needs to feel supported, safe and successful during their time as students, how societal and cultural issues impact those needs and what you can do as a Racer grad to have a meaningful impact on their lives. Plus, learn more about Murray State’s recently established Women’s Philanthropy Society. We discuss the group’s mission, goals and the many ways that the founding alumnae and others are finding joy and meaning in pooling their individual wealth, no matter how big or how small, to create opportunities for scholarly women, including Murray State students, alumni, faculty and staff, and how you can be a part of this growing effort.

 If you are interested in volunteering your time or contributing other necessary resources to the Women’s Center at Murray State, reach out to Abigail Cox at msu.womenscenter@murraystate.edu or 270-809-3016. You can also visit the Women's Center online to learn more about their services.  

If you would like to make a gift to the Women’s Philanthropy Society or any fund of your choice to support the next generation of Racers, you can do so quickly and easily online at murraystate.edu/giving. Or, call the Office of Development to learn more at 270-809-3001.

  This podcast was produced with the help of Jim Ray Consulting Services and made possible by members of the Murray State University Alumni Association.  Jim is a 1992 Murray State graduate. He can help you with the concept development, implementation, production and distribution of your own podcast, just as he has done for the MSUAA.

Not a current member of the MSUAA? Let's change that! Join today by visiting murraystate.edu/alumni.

Law & Order. Any network show with "Chicago" in the title. Who doesn't love a good crossover event? In episode 15 of the Racer Alumni Podcast, Jordan and Carrie get the chance to get to know three young alumni who have taken their decades-long obsession with Racer Men's Basketball and turned it into a podcast followed by Racer fans and friends all over the world.

They say timing is everything. Sawyer Lawson, '16, Logan Foster, '17, and Austin Blakely, '16 & '17, started the Racer Nation Podcast in 2021, just as the OVC Champion Racers would embark upon a magical season who's run would be stopped only by arguably one of history's greatest Cinderella teams, St. Peters, two games deep into the 2022 NCAA tournament in Indianapolis. 

The Racer Legacy began in these three alumni when they were still in diapers, and it continues today as they find success in their growing families and thriving careers. How many high schoolers do you know who spend their money on collegiate basketball season tickets? We chat about their earliest blue and gold-laden memories, their involvement in campus life as students, their obsession with Murray State Hall-of-Famer D.T. Mayes ('96-'98), their ultimate Racer "Dream Team," and get their thoughts on what the #7 Racers need to do to get past #10 Valpo and make their way beyond game one of the Missouri Valley Conference Arch Madness Men's Basketball Tournament in St. Louis this weekend. Much like the Oscars, there may even be some tears shed and a mid-show wardrobe change. 

If you are headed to St. Louis for the tournament, be sure to stop by Racer Fan Headquarters, The Wheelhouse, 1000 Spruce St., for the MSUAA-sponsored pregame party Thursday, beginning when the venue opens at 3 p.m. It is free of charge and will include loads of #RacerSpirit, as well as a visit from Dunker, Racer Band and the MSU Cheerleaders. The MSUAA will host pregame festivities prior to every tournament appearance as long as the Racers continue to win. 

This podcast was produced with the help of Jim Ray Consulting Services and made possible by members of the Murray State University Alumni Association.  Jim is a 1992 Murray State graduate. He can help you with the concept development, implementation, production and distribution of your own podcast, just as he has done for the MSUAA.

Not a current member of the MSUAA? Let's change that! Join today by visiting murraystate.edu/alumni.

The views and opinions expressed during the Racer Alumni Podcast do not necessarily reflect those of Murray State University, its administration or the faculty at large. The episodes are designed to be inspiring and entertaining.