Morehead State University: The Magazine 2025

A PUBLICATION FOR EAGLE ALUMNI & FRIENDS

Hello from Morehead State University!

We are pleased to bring you the latest issue of The Magazine. As you make your way through these pages, I hope you will be inspired by the exciting growth happening on our campus, the success and talents of our students and the stories of your fellow alumni.

It is truly an exciting time to be on campus. In last year’s issue, we announced plans for a state-funded $98 million science and engineering building. Since that time, we have received additional funding for not just one additional building, but three.

Two new, modern residence halls will provide upgraded living spaces for our students. Additionally, a new multidisciplinary academic building will take the place of the Bert T. Combs Building and Baird Music Hall – two facilities that have served our campus well but need replacement.

Campus will be busy over the next few years with ongoing construction, so we ask for your patience if you are planning a visit soon (and we hope you are!). The changes will be more than worth it as we move forward and continue to provide future generations of students with a quality experience. You can read more about, and take a peek at, all these projects in the upcoming pages.

As proud Eagles, we hope you enjoy the publication before you. Please share the stories that you read –and help us to write new ones! If you know a student or alumni whose story we need to tell, please let us know.

Thank you for all you do to positively promote Morehead State University. Remember – Once an Eagle, Always an Eagle!

Cordially,

Dr. Joseph A. “Jay” Morgan President

Cover photo credit: Katie Pearce, junior, media production and journalism, Burlington, KY

Publisher

• Rick Hesterberg (Class of 1980), vice president for university advancement Communications & Marketing

• Blake Hannon (Class of 2017), publications writer

• Jordan Hardin, social media & communications specialist

• Toni Hobbs (Class of 2002, 2009), director of digital & brand strategy

• Chas Jenkins (Class of 2020), content specialist

• Travis Keene (Class of 2004, 2008), digital communications specialist

• David Moore (Class of 2009), digital communication & media manager

• April Hobbs Nutter (Class of 1997, 2005), director of strategic communications

• Rianna Robinson (Class of 2005, 2021), content specialist

Alumni Relations & Development

• Farrah Baldwin (Class of 2001), director of alumni engagement & cultivation

• Allison Caudill (Class of 2005, 2009), executive director of alumni relations & development

• Jessi Scruggs Ferguson (Class of 2011, 2012), director of advancement & alumni communications

• Mikayla Ray Martin (Class of 2021), alumni relations & event office

• Matthew Nutter (Class of 1996, 2018), advancement records specialist

• Allie Rayburn Bush (Class of 2022), coordinator of digital engagement & annual giving

• Kelsey Shields (Class of 2019), MSU Foundation scholarship & stewardship coordinator

• Sherry Surmont (Class of 2018), director of advancement services

• Leslee Toy (Class of 1990, 2003), alumni & donor experience officer

• Sydnee Wellman (Class of 2023), young alumni & campus development coordinator Athletics

• Kenna Allen Gauche (Class of 2008, 2009), senior associate director of athletics for external affairs & senior woman administrator

• Kelly Wells (Class of 1995), director of athletics

SOARING TOGETHER

Twin sisters Kennedy and Karington Little have a shared love for MSU. 22

MOVING FORWARD

34

MSU has several new construction projects that will transform and revitalize campus.

A FAMILIAR TUNE

48

J.T. Cure’s musical success as Chris Stapleton’s bassist has MSU roots.

SPACE SCIENCE PROGRAM OFFERS UNEXPECTED AID FOR LUNAR MISSION

Morehead State University’s Space Science Center staff and students provided key support to the Intuitive Machines (IM) IM-1 lunar mission in February 2024.

The mission carried IM’s lander, Odysseus (nicknamed Odie), to the Moon’s south polar region. MSU provided command uplink and telemetry downlink, ranging and Doppler radiometric measurement as part of IM’s commercial Lunar Data Network (LDN).

Odie experienced a challenge during the landing; its landing gear absorbed the initial impact, but it landed at a tilt. Communicating with Odie presented a considerable engineering challenge.

MSU’s status as one of Intuitive Machines’ LDN stations and one of NASA’s Deep Space Network (DSN) sites enabled contingency commanding of Odie through the DSN when significantly higher power was required to close the command uplink. NASA devised a solution - MSU served as a mission operation “command bridge” between IM’s Nova Control and the DSN. The MSU Mission Operations Control (MOC) team participated in real-time voice coordination loops and was integral in orchestrating the coordination between the various DSN stations and Nova Control.

NASA’s solution worked. IM issued hundreds of commands to Odie and retrieved data with large radio telescopes on the ground.

“Commanding to IM-1 by the DSN would not have been possible without the assistance and professionalism of the MSU MOC team,” said Jason Soloff, chief engineer of the IM Lunar Data Network.

Intuitive Machines, a Houston-based Space Company, made history when it became the first non-government organization to land a spacecraft on the Moon.

Explore how MSU students connect with this universe and beyond at www.moreheadstate.edu/science

MSU RECEIVES $10M GOVERNMENT INVESTMENT

In October, U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced a federal earmark of nearly $10 million in Community Project Funding to enhance MSU’s two space tracking stations.

Congressman Rogers also recognized staff and students who assisted with the moon mission when the Odysseus Lander (a.k.a. “Odie”) was damaged in the landing. He submitted a tribute in the Congressional Record commemorating the team and noted that Morehead State has become “a household name within NASA.”

Intuitive Machines’ Odysseus lander reached the moon Feb. 22, 2024, and completed its primary mission goals thanks to support from students and staff at MSU’s Space Science Center. Photo Credit: Intuitive Machines.

YEAR-IN-REVIEW

Stay up-to-date with MSU at moreheadstate.edu/news.

Bryce Allen, a senior from Paintsville, and Karington Little (Class of 2024), a senior from Lexington, were crowned the 2024 Homecoming King and Queen.

Eagle Men’s Basketball and fans gathered to watch the 2024 NCAA Tournament selection.

Fireworks lit up the skies as the MSU Football squad triumphed on the field during Family Weekend.

MSU honored nearly 500 graduates at fall commencement. Kaylee Whitaker (Class of 2024) of Whitesburg was the student speaker.

students donned

performers

MSU celebrated a successful lunar landing supported by space systems engineering students during its Odysseus Landing Watch Party at the Star Theater.

MSU recognized nearly 700 graduates during the 2024 Spring Commencement ceremony.

Students came together to connect and kick off the school year during Eagle Fest.

Eagles gained a professional edge attending the Career & Internship Fair.

Eagle

special glasses to get a safe view during a Solar Eclipse Watch Party.

Student

lit up the stage during MSU’s annual Spring Gala.

Pictured from left to right are MSU President Dr. Jay Morgan; Scott Lockard, public health director for Kentucky River District Health Department; Kentucky Association of Health Plans President and CEO Tom Stephens; and Dr. Becky Davison, director of the

NEW MSW PROGRAM WILL HELP MEET REGIONAL NEEDS

Morehead State is committed to addressing the needs of the people of Appalachia, and the launch of a new graduate program will help meet the needs of some of the region’s most vulnerable citizens.

The University is launching a Master of Social Work (MSW) program this year thanks to the support of a $310,000 grant from the Kentucky Association of Health Plans (KAHP). Plans were announced in spring 2024 and MSU collaborated with Mountain Comprehensive Care and Primary Plus to apply for the grant.

The program will offer two specialized tracks: behavioral health (clinical) and substance use disorder. The MSW program will offer a generalist track for students who still need a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and an advanced standing track for students who have earned BSW degrees. In addition, MSU will offer a five-year pathway to allow students to earn both a BSW and an MSW.

Dr. Becky Davison (Class of 2023), director of the social work program at

MSU, said the degree options and the five-year pathway will help meet the need for qualified social workers.

“The eastern region of Kentucky has a high demand for these services but does not have enough advanced degree social workers to meet the demand.”

-DR. DAVISON

“In particular, healthcare providers, recovery centers, community health centers, and other agencies in our region have expressed a need for Licensed Clinical Social Workers,” said Davison.

The program plans to launch in the fall 2025 semester.

MSU social work program.

NEW VASCULAR SONOGRAPHY PROGRAM

PREPARES STUDENTS FOR SUCCESS

Morehead State’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) program began offering the new vascular sonography concentration in the fall 2024 semester.

Students in the program receive handson learning in MSU’s imaging sciences

facilities and through clinical placements in healthcare facilities throughout the region.

To learn more about the program, contact Assistant Professor of Imaging Sciences Jennifer Clark (Class of 2013, 2014) at je.clark@moreheadstate.edu.

RADIOLOGIC SCIENCE COHORT EARNS 100% PASS RATE

Spring 2024 graduates of MSU’s radiologic science program are ready to enter the workforce after passing their national credentialing exam on the first attempt.

All 24 members of the Spring 2024 cohort passed the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) credentialing exam on the first try.

Jeffrey Fannin (Class of 1990), director of the radiologic science program at MSU, said the cohort’s success shows the program prepares students for career success.

“The program’s curriculum, faculty, clinical agencies, and selective admission processes are all strong and consistent with producing outstanding program outcomes, such as passage on first attempt of national registry,” Fannin said. “Strong program effectiveness data, evidenced here at MSU, should make our program stand out from other competitive programs.”

MSU offers associate and bachelor’s degrees in imaging sciences, and an online leadership in medical imaging program. Learn more at www.moreheadstate.edu/science

Athletics Review

As I reflect on my first full year and a half as athletic director at Morehead State University, I am filled with pride for what we have accomplished together. Our student-athletes have continued to inspire us with their commitment, resilience, and passion both on and off the field. Our dedicated staff has worked tirelessly to support them, fostering an environment that promotes athletic excellence and prioritizes academic achievement and personal growth. We have made strides to reignite and re-engage our fanbase, with more and more Eagle pride. The energy and enthusiasm from our alumni, community, and friends have fueled our teams and elevated the athletic department. Together, we have created a sense of unity and shared purpose that makes being an Eagle truly special.

This year, we’ve made significant strides in improving our facilities and infrastructure, ensuring our athletes have access to top-tier resources to compete at our highest levels. We’ve also enhanced our programming and expanded growth opportunities, setting the foundation for even greater success in the years to come.

As we move forward, I remain committed to building on this momentum, continuing to elevate Morehead State Athletics to new heights. Thank you for your unwavering support, and let’s keep soaring higher.

SKO EAGS, Kelly Wells (Class of 1995) Director of Athletics

2024 Athletic Staffing Updates

New head coaches we have welcomed this year:

• Jonathan Mattox, men’s basketball

• Jason Woodman, football

• Paul Cox, soccer

• Sarah Martin, beach volleyball

• Kyrsten Becker-McBride (Class of 2015), volleyball

Student, Academic and Athletic honors

We have had a number of student, Academic and Athletic honors:

2024 All-Girl National Champions: 14th National Championship 54 championships in total!

2024 Women’s Soccer NCAA Automatic Qualifier (Winston-Salem, NC)

2024 Volleyball NCAA Automatic Qualifier (Pittsburgh, PA)

2024 Men’s Basketball OVC Regular & Tournament Champions / NCAA (Omaha, NE)

Mr. Eagle: Riley Minix, men’s basketball Ryley Preece, baseball

Miss Eagle: Kate Larbes, women’s soccer

Laughlin-Miller Award Winner: MacKenzie Neal, women’s golf

OVC Players of the Year: Riley Minix, men’s basketball Roman Kuntz, baseball

OVC Scholar-Athlete: Ryley Preece, baseball

OVC Steve Hamilton Award: MacKenzie Neal, women’s golf

Athletic FACILITY UPDATES AND IMPROVEMENTS

We have made great progress with a number of our facilities this year. Here are a few highlights:

Academic Athletic Center:

• Exterior branding

Baseball:

• Field turf

• Stadium renovation

• Viewing deck Cross Country, Track & Field:

• New track

Eagle Center & Len Miller Room:

• Renovation of team room and film room

Football: • New turf

• Jayne Stadium updates

Rifle:

• Ranges re-modeled

• Created a new team room

Soccer:

• New locker room

• Field updates

Softball:

• New scoreboard

• Field and facility updates

CALEB TILLMAN (CLASS OF 2024)

FOOTBALL | SENIOR | BIRMINGHAM, AL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

“What I love most about Morehead State Football is that they gave me an opportunity to play Division I football, which was always a childhood dream of mine. I was given the chance to play on the big stage and gained lifelong friends in the process which I will forever be grateful for. Morehead State also gave me the opportunity to become a second-generation college graduate, equipping me with skills to take on the world. Morehead State will always be a part of me.”

SYDNEY SENNETT VOLLEYBALL/BEACH VOLLEYBALL | SOPHOMORE | NORMAL, IL EXERCISE SCIENCE WITH PSYCHOLOGY MINOR

“Playing volleyball at Morehead State has changed my life more than I ever thought it could. The highlight of my experience is the relationships I have built with my teammates. The bond we share goes beyond volleyball. Additionally, the small class sizes at the University provide more individualized attention and opportunities to interact with professors. I believe as a student-athlete, it is important to have balance so that you can grow academically and personally to have success after graduation.”

TAIKIBREA “RED” CAMPBELL SOFTBALL | JUNIOR | HARTWELL, GA NURSING

“One thing I have loved the most would be the friendships I have built with my teammates. I’ve also been very blessed with the opportunity of being able to live out my dream of playing Division I softball while pursuing a degree in nursing. This is my first semester in the program and the professors have already made me feel like I’m right where I’m supposed to be.”

GRANT HERRON (CLASS OF 2024)

BASEBALL | GRAD STUDENT | GREENWOOD, IN BUSINESS (FINANCE) & BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

“Playing baseball at Morehead has given me an opportunity to create lifelong friends, while playing the sport that I love. Having a supportive coaching staff, athletic department, and community has allowed me to have a good experience while playing baseball at Morehead State. Morehead has provided me with positive educational opportunities by giving me the chance to balance academics and athletics. “

Student-Athlete Spotlight

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

MSU Athletics is honored to announce this year’s honorees. They will be recognized during Blue and Gold Alumni Weekend, February 8, 2025.

Jade Flory Rhoads (Class of 2015)

Jade Flory Rhoads played two seasons of soccer at MSU. She finished with five gamewinning goals in her first season, tying the single-season record at MSU. She was named OVC Offensive Player of the Year and First Team All-OVC. In her second season, she again earned multiple OVC honors. She led the team with 50 shots and produced a .560 shot-on-goal average. In her MSU career, she finished third with 68 points, tied for third with 27 goals, tied for third with 14 assists and was second in program history with nine match-winning goals.

Marisa Kamelgarn (Class of 2013)

Marisa Kamelgarn came to MSU from Mahopac, New York, and immediately impacted MSU’s Women’s Golf program both on and off the course. She was named four times as a National Golf Coaches Association All-American Scholar. She was also on the Ohio Valley Conference Commissioner’s Honor Roll all four seasons. In her collegiate career, she has six tournament victories and is the fourth player in Ohio Valley Conference history to earn All-OVC First Team honors four times. Kamelgarn earned OVC Golfer of the Week awards a record 11 times.

Zach Lewis (Class of 2014)

After a record-breaking high school career in Clay County, Zach Lewis continued his success at MSU as one of MSU’s most prolific passers. He holds the school record for most passing yards in a season with 3,585, averaging 325.9 yards per game his freshman year and a record 324 completions. Lewis threw for 28 touchdowns, second in program history. He is one of only two quarterbacks in MSU history to pass for over 10,000 yards, and he finished his career with 10,251 passing yards. His career line of 936 completions in 1,499 attempts for 256.3 yards per game with 72 touchdown passes ranks second in program history.

Walt Rybka

Walt Rybka headed the MSU Rifle program from 1995-96 through 2013-14. He guided Elizabeth Lyon in 2009 and Ethan Cole in 2014 to the NCAA Championships. Rybka was named OVC Coach of the Year twice (1997-98 and 1999-2000), guiding Morehead State to a national ranking during several seasons as head coach. During his tenure, numerous athletes won conference and national rifle awards, and his 1998-99 squad earned the best GPA among all collegiate teams. Rybka continues to be a vital part of the Eagles’ success, lending support by serving as range director for home matches and helping upgrade the facilities in Button Range.

Benjamin Schmid (Class of 2003)

Benjamin Schmid was a standout for the Morehead State Men’s Tennis Team from 2000 to 2003. A three-time First Team All-OVC selection, Schmid posted a winning percentage of better than 90% in his career against Ohio Valley Conference opponents. He was named FirstTeam Academic All-District twice. Among his many victories at MSU, Schmid won a singles tournament in Chattanooga, TN, in 2003. That same year, he was named a Second-Team Academic All-American by the College Sports Information Directors of America organization.

ALUMNI AWARDS

The MSU Alumni Association is honored to announce the 2025 class of alumni award recipients. They will be recognized at Homecoming.

Steven “Preppy” Engels (Class of 1977), Eagle Spirit Award

Steven “Preppy” Engels has shown deep commitment to MSU through two six-year terms on the Alumni Association Board of Directors. As a longtime Eagle Ambassador, he actively promotes MSU and supports recruitment efforts, demonstrating unmatched passion for the University.

Colby Birkes (Class of 2020), Rising Eagle Award

Colby Birkes, a corporate attorney at Dentons Bingham Greenebaum LLP, specializes in governance, compliance, and mergers. A University of Louisville Brandeis Law graduate, he interned with a federal judge and worked at the U.S. Attorney’s Office. He has been involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana and served on the Kentucky Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division.

Steven Middleton (Class of 2004, 2008), Notable Alumni Award

Steven Middleton, senior mass communication instructor at Morehead State, teaches TV production, social media, and documentary filmmaking. Since 2009, 11 of his documentaries have aired on KET, often featuring MSU students. As owner of State Run Media, he has produced 16 films highlighting MSU and Appalachia, earning national recognition through international film festivals and public broadcasting.

Ted Docks (Class of 1998, 2002), Hall of Fame Inductee

Ted Docks, a two-time Morehead State graduate, is the special agent in charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Criminal Division. He is a recipient of the National Intelligence Exceptional Achievement Medal and has held key leadership roles in the FBI’s Weapons of Mass Destruction Directorate and Houston Field Office.

Juan Dontrese Brown (Class of 1999), Hall of Fame Inductee

Dontrese Brown is the former director of brand creative at Capital One and former creative director of marketing at Victorinox/Swiss Army Knife Inc. He is a sought-after creator and public speaker who led efforts to rename Arthur Ashe Boulevard and establish Cristo Rey Richmond High School, both in his current home of Richmond, Virginia.

Pat Petrillo (Class of 1983, 1984), Hall of Fame Inductee

Pat Petrillo, a world-renowned drummer, has impacted the music industry through live performances, recording, and product innovation. He performed in Broadway hits like “A Chorus Line” and “Grease” and toured with artists like Patti LaBelle. His group, The Pat Petrillo Big Rhythm Band, has released two albums, and he’s an Innervision Records artist.

FOREVER A FAN IN THE STANDS

Jeff Grubb (Class of 1977) was always passionate about Morehead State University and the Morehead community. When it came time for his sons Alan Grubb (Class of 2011), Joe Grubb (Class of 2006), and Jon Grubb to consider where they would attend college, he reminded them that they didn’t have to go far to receive a top-notch education, as MSU was a great school in their own backyard.

An avid sports fan, Jeff was especially enthusiastic about MSU basketball. A longtime season ticket holder, he rarely ever missed a game, and his sons grew up attending often with their dad.

Though Alan admits that his dad was not necessarily successful in passing on his love of sports, the boys cherish their memories with their father in the Academic-Athletic Center (AAC). Whether it was attending MSU’s summer basketball camp or going to games and timing how long it would take before

Coach Dick Fick threw off his suit jacket and took his tie off, the AAC was a place of family bonding where they learned to take pride in their community and the hometown team.

When Jeff passed away after a short illness in 2024, Alan, Joe and Jon knew they wanted to permanently memorialize their dad’s status as an MSU super fan. After consulting with others in the family, they made a generous contribution to MSU Athletics to purchase two gym seats, originally from Wetherby Gymnasium, to be placed in the AAC. The seats bear a memorial plaque and provide a place for the Grubb family to return to MSU and be with their dad in one of the places he loved most.

“Over decades as an MSU fan, my dad saw a lot of highs and lows,” says Alan. “Regardless of how the team was doing, my dad was in the stands. Memorializing him here just made sense.”

If you’re interested in memorial giving opportunities, please email giving@moreheadstate.edu .

RECONNECTED & REMEMBERED

Many alumni say that the years spent on Morehead State University’s campus were some of the best years of their life. While Gary Schaal did not graduate from MSU, he gained this same sense of connection during his two years on campus. One connection with a special MSU cheerleader always left him with regret.

Schaal met Barbara Heinlein on campus. They became fast friends and even kindled a romantic relationship for a time. Schaal can recall the night when he last saw Heinlein on campus before an argument led to their break-up – and years’ worth of regrets about how things ended between the couple.

“We spent many evenings at the campus restaurant on Main Street. It was the place to be - music, dancing, laughing and students from all over the country connecting as MSU Eagles,” remembers Schaal. “But this night did not end well for me and Barbara. After an argument, we went our separate ways, and my direction was back home to Ohio.”

Schaal left campus without saying goodbye. He withdrew from school and finished his degree at The Ohio State University. He went on to have a successful career, meet the love of his life and get married, raise a family, and enjoy a great life.

But he never could shake the regret of leaving MSU the way he did and never saying goodbye.

He shared the story with his wife and she encouraged him to try to reconnect with Heinlein and make amends. Through internet research, he found her and sent her a letter. Nearly 40 years after they were last together on campus, they reconnected and became close friends in the early 2000s. Heinlein also enjoyed a successful career and built her own family.

Each year for nearly a decade, the pair would reconnect in Morehead during the annual Homecoming celebration. Sadly, Heinlein was diagnosed with cancer and passed away on March 25, 2017.

To honor her memory and support the campus they both held close to their hearts, Schaal established the Barbara Heinlein Memorial Scholarship Endowment. This scholarship supports incoming first-year students attending MSU who are graduates of a Kentucky high school and have financial need.

Schaal hopes that this scholarship will help Eagles for years to come obtain their degree from MSU and leave campus with strong friendships and no regrets.

Eagles Nest Restaurant, 1963

MUSICAL GIFTS

Greg Wing (Class of 1976), professor of music - trumpet, and Dr. Greg Detweiler, music education professor and director of choral studies, contributed to the longstanding reputation of Morehead State’s music school. Now, both have scholarships commemorating their contributions while providing opportunities to future generations.

Greg Wing

Wing retired from Morehead State University in the fall of 2023 after more than 21 years of teaching, but he hasn’t put away his trumpet.

The world-renowned musician, who has played with Frank Sinatra, Natalie Cole and Tony Bennett, still practices daily and stays busy as a freelance trumpet player and clinician from his home in Evansville, Indiana. Last year, he traveled to Ashland to play with The Temptations.

“Retire? Retire from what? Music’s in your blood,” Wing said. “I am still quite active in the music business, teaching and performing. After all, I have to keep firing this thing up.”

Raised in Covington, Wing first picked up a trumpet at age seven. He later traveled to MSU to attend various band clinics and music summer camps before officially becoming an Eagle himself.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education. Thanks to his preparation, he became a trumpet/musical director job in Columbus, Ohio, which started a long, successful performance career.

“If it wasn’t for my experiences as an undergrad student to mold me and shape me and to give me all those experiences playing and the ensembles and talking to the faculty

about their life experience ... I would have never, ever been where I am today,” he said.

After returning to his alma mater to teach in 2002, Wing poured all he had into his students while also serving as the producer/director and featured performer at MSU’s annual Spring Gala fundraiser.

At his retirement reception during Homecoming 2023, to his surprise, the MSU Foundation announced $25,000 in proceeds from the Spring Gala created the Greg Wing Scholarship Endowment for incoming first-year students majoring in music with trumpet as their primary instrument.

“I’m thinking, why in the world would they do that for me?” said Wing. “Teaching is very rewarding and anytime you can feel you can contribute to another young person’s success, that’s a good feeling to have.”

Greg Wing performing at the 2019 Spring Gala.

Dr. Greg Detweiler, pictured far right, conducts MSU’s Concert Choir and Chamber Singers in Parroquia Santa Catalina, Valencia, Spain, in 2018.

Dr. Greg Detweiler

When Detweiler thinks about the nature of choir singing, a quote from the late legendary choir conductor Robert Shaw comes to mind.

“To be an artist is not the privilege of a few but the necessity of us all.”

“Choir is that musical group that captures that,” Detweiler said. “It’s something that everyone can do.”

Growing up near Hershey, Pennsylvania, Detweiler spent plenty of time in his youth and young adulthood singing in choir groups nationwide and internationally as a student at Lebanon Valley College and later as a member of the United States Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus. He later taught at the high school and college levels before joining MSU as director of choral studies in 1998.

During his time primarily conducting MSU’s Concert Choir and Chamber Singers, Detweiler was intent on allowing students to get their own international experience. He led tours of Costa Rica, Italy, Spain, and Austria, just to name a few, along with taking top honors at the World Choir Games

in Cincinnati and the Mayo International Festival Choral Festival in Ireland.

“I grew up wanting to see things,” he said. “Quite frankly, that’s what I looked forward to, taking students to see the same thing, opening their vision to the world.”

Detweiler currently serves as the choral director of the First Baptist Church in Morehead, along with his wife and pianist, Tania. In 2023, after 25 years with MSU and 50 years in teaching, Detweiler decided to retire and “sneak out,” but not before the MSU Foundation created a scholarship in his honor. He is honored and thrilled that this scholarship reflects his passion for helping students, whether by affording a college education or as a music educator following in his footsteps.

“I think the beauty of teaching is that you learn so much in your 60 years, and then you give it away to these students, and they don’t have to spend 60 years figuring it out,” he said. “The legacy, I guess, is in the students you taught. What you’ve been able to share from your experiences that you know is going to be helpful as they share themselves with their students.”

SETTING THE STAGE

Dr. Travis Lockhart made an impact far beyond the classroom.

If anyone is familiar with the Morehead State University Theatre program over the 1980s, 1990s or 2000s, they will undoubtedly recognize the name Dr. Travis Lockhart. A graduate of Baylor University, the University of Minnesota, and the University of Texas at Austin, Lockhart made stops at the Minnesota Theatre Company, Buena Vista College in Iowa, and East Carolina University before he landed in Morehead. Dear old MSU was where he spent the rest of his career. Beginning as an assistant professor, he would work his way up to director of theatre at MSU.

Lockhart passed away on November 21, 2024. Because of both his dedication to and generosity toward Morehead State, he has left a legacy and ensured that the show will go on for future theatre students.

When he came to MSU, Lockhart did not just find a job; he found a community. He made it his mission to

help spread the joy of theatre beyond campus and was instrumental in creating the Morehead Theatre Guild, Morehead’s well-loved community theatre program. Established in 1989, the first board of directors for the guild featured other notable MSU connections, including MSU First Lady Wilma Grote, Clyde James (Class of 1965) and fellow MSU theatre faculty member Bill Layne. The Morehead Theatre Guild has since completed over 100 shows produced, directed, and performed by community members of all ages.

The theatre was integral to Lockhart’s life. A walk through his former home finds his halls decorated with framed playbills and posters from his campus productions — and there were many. When MSU honored Lockhart with the Distinguished Creative Production Award in 2005, he directed over 50 student productions.

When he spoke to The Magazine for Morehead State University before his passing, Lockhart said he lived a substantial part of his life “in a world of imagination.” He viewed theatre as an art form

to share human experiences and make the imagination into a tangible product.

“Theatre is a collaborative art,” he said. “The success of a play first begins with the reader who first brings the work to life in their imagination. Its success ends, however, with the collaboration of the audience in engaging with the story.”

His passion for and understanding of the world of theatre would make an indelible impact on the theatre program at Morehead State. Though he retired in 2005, he remained in Morehead, where he found a permanent home. His teachings and mentorship are still present in the program today.

“Little did I know that when I enrolled at MSU in 1982 to study theatre that I would meet someone who would impact not just my personal, but also professional, growth,” said Octavia Biggs (Class of 1987), director of The Little Company, MSU’s traveling theatre troupe. “When working with a theatre production on campus or with The Little Company, I still often ask myself, ‘What would Dr. Lockhart do?’”

Lockhart’s impact spread far beyond the classrooms in Breckinridge Hall and the theatre program. A fierce advocate for student support, Lockhart often worked to ensure students had the financial aid necessary to continue school. When it came time to consider his estate plans, a scholarship fund to help students aligned with Lockhart’s values.

Funded by an estate gift, the Dr. Travis Lockhart Theatre Scholarship Endowment will one day provide scholarships to junior or senior students majoring in theatre. The fund will ensure that future theatre students can proceed confidently to the curtain call of their program, knowing someone is backstage to cheer them on.

“Dr. Lockhart believes wholeheartedly that students from eastern Kentucky and MSU are artists who can ‘make it’ in professional theatre,” said Dr. Denise Watkins (Class of 1996), professor of theatre. “He is hopeful this endowment ensures that MSU students keep proving him right.”

SOARING TOGETHER

Twin sisters Kennedy and Karington Little share a love of MSU

Kennedy (Class of 2025) and Karington Little (Class of 2024) have more than a few things in common. The twin sisters are overachievers with a competitive streak, even about who was born first.

“I like to kind of hold that against her,” Kennedy said about beating her sister into the world by three minutes.

“It’s forever being hung over my head,” Karington added.

The Little sisters’ decision to come to MSU allowed them to grow together and separately.

Even though Kennedy and Karington had a “builtin best friend” growing up in Lexington, they had big college plans in separate places. Kennedy wanted to go to New York, while Karington had her eyes set on Chicago. When their parents crunched the numbers, they realized they needed to shoot for something smaller and more affordable.

Kennedy was first to tour MSU and was offered the Button Leadership Scholarship. When asked if MSU would provide the scholarship for her sister Karington, who had a nearly identical academic record, MSU offered the scholarship to both sisters.

Kennedy came to MSU to pursue a dual major in legal studies and agribusiness with a minor in public administration, while Karington doublemajored in Spanish and psychology. Their career goals differed, but both sisters knew they wanted to become engaged in campus life.

They gravitated toward student organizations like the Black Student Union and the Black Gospel Ensemble. Kennedy talked Karington

into joining her in applying for the Student Alumni Ambassadors (SAA) in fall 2021.

“Just being in a role or position where we represent the school, it really attracted her, and I was attracted to that later on,” Karington said.

“I think the thing I enjoy most is just ... making sure alumni are recognized and that they have a consistent seat at the table when it comes to holding up MSU and supporting MSU,” Kennedy said.

As part of SAA, the Little sisters contributed to some of Morehead State’s most notable events, whether it’s activities during Homecoming week or helping with the annual Spring Gala fundraiser.

They also benefitted from SAA’s mentoring program. Kennedy received mentorship from Louisville’s District Court Judge Yvette De Le Guardia (Class of 2010) before she took the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). Karington’s mentor was Sharon Ray (Class of 1988), CEO of S. Thompson & Associates HR Consulting Firm in Chicago.

Karington had an exciting fall semester where she was selected Homecoming Queen at Homecoming 2024 and earned her bachelor’s degree. Kennedy will earn her college degree in Spring 2025. As they get ready to start life after college, they have a new family as part of the Eagle Nation.

“Morehead will always hold a special place in my heart,” Karington said.

Kennedy added, “It’s knowing that I’m part of a legacy on campus, and there are just so many people that have graduated from this institution that are doing amazing things and that, in a way, I’m a part of that.”

The MSU Alumni & Student Alumni Ambassador (SAA) Mentoring Program fosters meaningful connections, enabling alumni to share professional and life experiences with students. The program strengthens alumni ties with Morehead State University and guides students toward success. This pilot program is exclusively for SAA members with hopes for future expansion! Learn more at alumni.moreheadstate.edu/saa .

STUDENT ALUMNI AMBASSADORS

Building student-to-alumni connections

The Student Alumni Ambassadors (SAA) have been a registered student organization on Morehead State’s campus for over 25 years. Established to create connections and interaction between current students and alumni, the organization has evolved into an awardwinning professional organization that teaches student leaders valuable networking skills.

This group of 30 dedicated students, selected through a recruitment and application process, serve as official student hosts for events presented by the Alumni Association or the Office of the President.

Whether by greeting guests at the door or speaking one-on-one at Homecoming events about their MSU experience, these students can network with alumni and community members they might never otherwise meet. These connections can

often be a professional springboard that could benefit their future careers.

Additionally, they promote tradition, spirit and philanthropy among students by hosting student-focused events throughout the year.

Fall’s signature event – the Nearly Naked Mile –is a coat drive and one-mile run that provides coats to the community. In the spring, SAA hosts “We Heart MSU Week,” where they highlight the impact of alumni donations and give students the chance to make their own gift through participation in MSU’s annual giving day.

“I’ve made invaluable connections through SAA,” says LilyAnn Thomas, a junior pre-radiology major from Ironton, Ohio. “I’ve met and connected with alumni in my future career field. Additionally, I feel like my pride in MSU has grown because I’m meeting proud alumni and hearing firsthand how much MSU has meant to them.”

MSU Student Alumni Ambassadors gathered for a group photo while assisting during Homecoming 2023.

A PROUD INVESTMENT

Marcella Muadi Batubenga is making the most of her time as an international student

In her home country in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Marcella Muadi Batubenga said it was the friendly people that made it special.

“You meet anyone anywhere, and you can talk as if you knew each other,” said Batubenga, a sophomore majoring in healthcare management.

When Batubenga and her family decided on Morehead State, she said she encountered a similar welcoming atmosphere.

“Everyone I met or kept meeting is just genuinely interested in you,” she said. “We all come, and we find our home away from home.”

After taking a First Year Seminar (FYS) class taught by Jen Timmermann (Class of 2003, 2007), director of transfer services, Batubenga remembers her saying, “You

only get out what you put in” as a college student. She took those words to heart and sought out beneficial opportunities for her academic, professional, and personal growth.

Batubenga is part of the Methodist Student Center, the International Student Association, Chi Alpha Campus Ministries, and the Student Alumni Ambassadors (SAA). She also serves as a peer leader at the Tutoring and Learning Center. Batubenga is always looking for opportunities to make a connection or try something new, and she now gets to share her MSU experience with her younger sister, Monica Batubenga, a first-year student majoring in agribusiness.

“I try to get as much knowledge as I can,” she said. “When you passed that (time in college), you realize it was four years. You either have regrets because you wasted it, or maybe you are proud because you invested in it.”

FLETCHER SELECTED AS KENTUCKY’S EDUCATION COMMISSIONER

A Morehead State University education graduate has been chosen to lead Kentucky’s education department.

Dr. Robbie Fletcher (Class of 1996, 2013), superintendent of Lawrence County Schools, will serve as the Kentucky Department of Education’s (KDE) Commissioner of Education.

Fletcher earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Physics from Morehead State in 1996. After earning a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership and Administration from the University of Kentucky in 2002, he returned to MSU to earn a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership and Administration in 2013.

Fletcher has been in the education field for 18 years and was Lawrence County’s

superintendent since 2014. He said the degrees he earned at MSU and his campus experience helped prepare him for this new role.

“I am very thankful for the educational opportunities that I received as part of the undergraduate and doctoral programs from Morehead State University,” he said. “I commend Morehead State and all of our colleges and universities throughout Kentucky that provide opportunities for our students to achieve their dreams.”

Fletcher said he does not take this responsibility lightly and plans to dedicate all his efforts to improving educational opportunities in Kentucky.

“When a child sits on one of our buses or walks through the doorway of one of our schools, a parent or guardian is saying, ‘I trust you with my greatest accomplishment,’” he said. “I will do my best to honor that trust that we have been given for over 600,000 Kentucky students by being ‘ALL IN’ each and every day.”

HAMMONDS IS SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Morehead State University’s Ernst & Sara Lane Volgenau College of Education continues to produce some of the best educators in Kentucky.

The Council for Exceptional Children selected Stephanie Hammonds (Class of 2022), an exceptional child instructor at Carl D. Perkins Job Corps in Paintsville, as its 2023 Special Education Teacher of the Year. Hammonds is a first-generation college student with 30 years of teaching experience. She earned her Rank II certification from MSU in 2022.

SLONE NAMED KY TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Allison Slone (Class of 1998, 2001) earned this year’s Kentucky Education Association (KEA) Teacher of the Year award. She’s a special education teacher at Rowan County Senior High School (RCSHS), where she’s taught for 24 years.

Slone followed in the footsteps of her father Dennis Shepherd (Class of 1968). She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Learning and Behavior Disorders (K-12) and Early Elementary (K-4) and a Master of Arts in Education in Special Education. She earned Rank I in Special Education in 2006.

This is the second year in a row that a teacher with the Rowan County school

district has earned KEA Teacher of the Year honors. Melissa Jenkins (Class of 2003, 2008), a science teacher at RCSHS earned the recognition last year, and Slone does not think the RCSHS/MSU connection to teacher quality is a mere coincidence.

“The back-to-back awards are a testament to the education we both received at MSU and to the level of expectations we have as educators in Rowan County,” Slone said. “I truly believe we have some of the best teachers in this entire state, but I also believe that’s because the biggest majority of us received our education at Morehead State University.”

MSU is now offering students a faster path to teacher certification, Option 9. MSU has been preparing students for the region’s classrooms since its founding. This state initiative assists potential students who are paraprofessionals in a school district

Learn more about Option 9 at www.moreheadstate.edu/education.

PUTTING IN THE WORK

From blue collar to blue and gold, Shane Wallingford achieved his biggest goals through MSU

Shane Wallingford (Class of 2011, 2013) is unafraid of hard work and no stranger to tragedy.

He lost his older brother in a motorcycle accident when he was 12 years old and watched his family home go up in flames after high school as a freshman in college. He farmed tobacco, baled hay with his father, and constructed housing after high school. He was a blaster underground in limestone mines and worked 12-hour shifts in a paper mill.

Regardless of the job, Wallingford did what he could to support his wife, Kim, and their children. After losing out on a promotion, he was sitting on a forklift at 3 a.m. when he had a life-changing realization.

“You’re on a forklift, unloading trucks in a nasty hole, dusty and dirty, and you’re a smart guy. What are you doing?” Wallingford recalled. “How do I make this amount of money and not be doing what I’m doing? The only way to do that is an education.”

Wallingford’s education resumed at Maysville Community & Technical College (MCTC). He added to the general education requirements he completed after high school and earned an associate’s degree in applied science in HVAC on his days off while working his full-time job. He was encouraged by MCTC to visit MSU and meet with Dr. Ahmad Zargari, professor and dean of the College of Science & Engineering, to consider earning his bachelor’s degree to enhance his two decades of industrial experience.

Thanks to a supportive family, an understanding employer, and the dedication of MSU faculty and staff, Wallingford worked full-time while earning a Bachelor of Science in Technology Management in 2011 and a Master of Science in Engineering & Technology Management in 2013.

Wallingford is now the owner and president of JSB Industrial Solutions, INC. in Tollesboro, which he said wouldn’t have been conceivable without MSU faculty helping him realize his potential. Two of his three children followed in their father’s footsteps.

Jenna Wallingford is a junior pursuing a degree in elementary education, and his son Bryce Wallingford (Class of 2022) graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management & Civil Engineering and is a staff field technician at Thoroughbred Engineering (his son, Seth, attended Berea College). They all admired their father’s sacrifice and dedication to earning his college education.

“Dad would share his computer and purposely try to complete his assignments before we came home from school. Somehow, he always found a way to make sure we never sacrificed anything. It is remarkable looking back at it,” Bryce said. “Looking back now, after having graduated from

the same program as my dad, I knew how much work it took for him to accomplish what he did. I was proud then, but I am even more proud now.”

Wallingford could have given in to his circumstances or settled for less than his capabilities. Instead, he overcame the struggles in his life and applied his work ethic to his education to achieve his dream.

“You don’t have time to say ‘woe is me’ if you’re going to succeed. You only have so many days in life. You’re gonna be productive with them or not productive with them,” Wallingford said. “That’s always been my attitude in how I can improve upon not only my life, but the people’s lives around me.”

A VISION FOR THE FUTURE

A native of Elliott County, Randy Greene (Class of 1967) always knew he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a doctor. Anxious to get started, Greene completed the necessary requirements to be admitted into MSU without ever graduating high school.

As if that did not expedite his degree enough, Greene also opted to attend year-round and completed his bachelor’s degree in just three years, graduating from MSU at only 19 years old.

Though accepted to the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville for medical school, Greene had an itch to see other parts of the country and enrolled in school in California.

After accepting a position at a trauma hospital in Portland, Oregon, he and Judy stayed in the area for 35 years. Following retirement, they moved across the river to Vancouver, Washington, where they still reside today.

With hearts for helping others in need, the Greenes set up a donoradvised fund to provide philanthropic support to causes near to their heart. With Judy’s enthusiastic support, Randy decided to direct some assistance back home to the eastern Kentucky region. Through a generous gift, the Greenes established the Greene Family Scholarship Endowment at the MSU Foundation to support students studying in a science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) field or associate degree program.

He always thought he would return to eastern Kentucky to practice radiology. Still, after accepting a residency at a hospital in California, he met a fellow radiologist, Judy, who would become his wife.

“I was so impressed with the faculty at MSU and had a great experience,” says Randy. “I’m honored to help provide other students with that same experience.”

A SPACE TO CREATE

Shay Hammond’s business and passion project provides a creative outlet for the Morehead community.

“Keep succeeding.”

These two words constantly run through Shay Hammond’s (Class of 2015) mind. That mantra — a summation of Hammond’s ambition and drive toward everything she does — served her well at Morehead State and in her career and as an entrepreneur.

“It’s always been in me,” Hammond said. “It’s … cool. It’s tiring sometimes. I never feel like I’m done. I never feel like I can just … stop.”

Proof of Hammond’s creativity and entrepreneurial spirit goes back to middle school in Olive Hill. She started a homemade dog treat business in the eighth grade called Shay’s Bones and Biscuits with the help of her parents, Cindy Hammond (Class of 1990) and Bryan Keith Hammond (Class of 1998), and her younger sister, Jenna Hammond (Class of 2016). The family sent Hammond’s business to the National Foundation of Young Entrepreneurs, which led to a $1,000 scholarship award and a TIME For Kids magazine cover with Hammond surrounded by dogs in Central Park in New York City.

“She just gets stuff done. She puts her mind to something, and she does it,” Cindy said of her daughter.

Hammond initially enrolled at the University of Kentucky (UK) but withdrew after one semester. Given her family’s ties to MSU, she investigated transferring and received direction from Tim Creekmore (Class of 1991, 1993), a retired studio supervisor for MSU-TV, who convinced her to become an Eagle.

Hammond earned bachelor’s degrees at MSU focusing on art and multimedia production. As an undergrad, she was the website developer for MSUTV and helped Professor of Mass Communication

Jeffrey Hill edit video documentaries picked up by Kentucky Educational Television (KET).

Hammond also married her high school sweetheart D.J. Banks and gave birth to Hazel, 11, their first of three children (Olivia, 6, and Thea, 1, came later).

“She is just really strong-willed,” Banks said, describing his initial impression of her in high school. “You can just sit with her for 10 minutes in a classroom and pick up that.”

Before graduation, a classroom assignment led her to submit a cover letter, resume and portfolio to Big Ass Fans in Lexington. She worked as the company’s web developer for five years and did freelance web development. One of those clients, BuildWitt in Nashville, offered her a full-time position as director of web development.

Working remotely and living in Lexington, Hammond still wanted to return to Morehead and do something impactful.

Shay and D.J. founded WhimziWorks, a creative studio space with drop-in activities in downtown Morehead that officially opened in June 2024. Kids can create everything from slime to suncatchers to mosaics. Patrons of all ages can create pottery or rent creative space to work on arts and crafts at affordable prices.

“Every inch of that place is my daughter. Every bit of it,” Cindy said, who volunteers at WhimziWorks in retirement. “It’s just so impressive. I’m so proud of her.”

Hammond knows MSU fostered her entrepreneurial spirit and creative ambitions. Now, she’s excited to use what she’s learned and experienced to enrich her community.

“I’ve always sort of wanted to give back, both to MSU and Morehead. This studio is truly a passion project and something I want people in Morehead to have.”

-SHAY HAMMOND

LIFELONG LEARNERS

Georgianne Cooper and Joe Wilson prove it’s never too late to graduate as Eagles

Joe Wilson (Class of 2024) grew up on a farm in Asher, Leslie County, as a carpenter. He spent most of his life building things for pleasure, as a profession, or a little bit of both. As he reached retirement age, Wilson, now 72, wanted to continue his education and earn his college degree from MSU.

Wilson kept building houses while earning his GED and enrolled in Hazard Community & Technical College in the fall of 2016, taking part-time classes and earning an associate degree in the fall of 2020.

Tracy Counts, a transfer advisor and enrollment services counselor for regional campuses, and the staff at the University Center of the Mountains (where he took his MSU classes) did everything they could to help him, adopting him as the “office grandpa.”

“He has such a sweet spirit about him that he is wonderful to be around,” Counts said.

“She kind of kept making sure I kept my classes up to date and stuff like that,” Wilson said of Counts. “They’re all real good to me.”

Wilson earned a Bachelor of University Studies in December 2023 at age 71 and walked to the stage in spring 2024. As a father and grandfather, his achievement made many people happy and proud.

“...And me being so young, you know,” Wilson said, laughing. “It means a lot to me, of course. I don’t praise myself, but I’m glad I got my college degree at my age.”

Before Georgianne “Georgie” Cooper (Class of 2024) graduated from MSU with a Bachelor of University Studies at 69, she had previously enrolled in college twice.

Growing up in Bowling Green, Georgie attended nearby Western Kentucky University (WKU) in 1972 after graduating high school at the encouragement of her mother, Ann Smith.

Her time at WKU only lasted one year. After moving to Lexington, she met her husband, David Cooper. The two settled and started a family in Frenchburg, where David took a job as a county clerk. Her first job after college was as a nursing assistant at the University of Kentucky Hospital, but she gravitated toward her interest in computers and finished her career as an implementation specialist for a pharmaceutical software company.

During her career, Georgie still wanted to finish her degree and enrolled as a full-time student at Morehead State in the 1990s. Unfortunately, she had to withdraw to take care of her late mother after she was diagnosed with cancer.

“I was disappointed in myself,” she said. “I thought I failed.”

However, on Aug. 13, 2022, while talking to her inquisitive granddaughter, Mallory Cooper (then 11), about what she wanted to do when she grew up, Mallory asked why grandma didn’t have a college degree. Georgie decided to change that and enrolled at MSU two days later, receiving the Alumni Scholarship thanks to her children Matt Cooper (Class of 2018) and Kim Cooper (Class of 2004).

When she walked to earn her degree, she did it for a mother who believed in her, a husband and family who supported her, and to show a little girl how to chase her goals and dreams.

“I wanted my granddaughter to understand,” she said. “It doesn’t matter if the number (age) is old like me or young like her. If it’s important to you, never stop the number from letting you do that.”

MAKE MSU a family tradition!

The Alumni Family Scholarship Program

When Georgie made the decision to complete her college degree at MSU, she was aided by a special alumni benefit. The Alumni Family Scholarship Program was created to support relatives of MSU alumni as they pursue their own MSU education. This special scholarship program is open to all full-time undergraduate students who have a parent, grandparent, stepparent, legal guardian, child or spouse who graduated from Morehead State.

To learn more about the application process and scholarship eligibility, visit alumni.moreheadstate.edu/alumnischolarship.

MOVING FORWARD

Kim Oatman and the facilities team have an eye on the end goal to improve MSU’s campus

Morehead State University’s efforts to revitalize and transform its campus to benefit current and future students have many moving parts. There are timelines to meet, dollars to spend, projects and people to manage.

For a job that requires overseeing the execution of some of the most significant and impactful construction projects in MSU’s recent history, Kim H. Oatman is built for this role.

Oatman is MSU’s chief facilities officer and associate vice president of capital construction for its current and future campus revitalization efforts. The facilities team is 80 people strong, including Terry White (Class of 1989, 2006, 2007), executive director of campus facilities services, Holly Niehoff (Class of 2015), director of environmental health & safety, Kristen Lowe (Class of 2010), director of facilities finance & administration, and FM project managers John Cox and Jeff Ferguson (Class of 2009)

Oatman’s educational background is in civil engineering and public administration.

He has spent decades working in engineering and construction management in the public and private sectors.

Oatman held leadership roles in facilities for Murray State University and the University of Louisville before coming to MSU in 2018. At Murray State, he oversaw $150 million of construction projects first as chief engineer and later as chief facilities officer.

After the Kentucky General Assembly allocated construction funds to the University, the facilities team were eager to begin planning new facilities and removing outdated buildings “in an effort to improve the campus while keeping its integrity.”

“Our job and my duty here is to make this campus operate as efficiently as we can so we can fulfill the mission of educating students,” he said.

The total cost of the new academic buildings will be $188 million, with $98 million going to the science and engineering building and $90 million for the multidisciplinary academic

“Our job and my duty here is to make this campus operate as efficiently as we can so we can fulfill the mission of educating students.”

-KIM OATMAN

building. The facilities team has overseen the use of $40 million in state asset preservation funding, which has been used to make needed repairs on several campus buildings. Some of the projects included renovating Cooper Hall, Eagle Lake Apartments, Craft Tower, Ginger Hall, Camden-Carroll Library’s first floor, the Educational Services Building for MSU Police, and replacing multiple roofs and cooling systems across campus. The state recently

approved an additional $30 million in asset preservation funds, which Oatman said could be used for renovations of the Veterinary Technology Building and other campus facilities.

The great news is that these campus revitalizations are being accomplished with funding from the Commonwealth of Kentucky without requiring student tuition and fee increases.

Architect’s rendering

The 123,000-square-foot facility will house biology, chemistry, physics, geoscience, computer science, engineering, and manufacturing programs. Construction is anticipated to be completed by Spring 2027.

NEW SCIENCE & ENGINEERING BUILDING

A state-of-the-art building to elevate STEM programs

Construction is underway on MSU’s new $98 million science and engineering building. The building promises to give students a robust scientific education and contribute to the region’s economic growth.

Dr. Ahmad Zargari, dean of the College of Science & Engineering, called the facility a strategic investment in the future of science, technology and engineering programs.

“The new science and engineering building is designed to enhance student learning using specialized and state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories preparing them for the 21st-century job market in their related fields,” said Zargari. “The new building will provide opportunities to revise and expand existing programs, strengthen currently accredited programs, and enhance our efforts to earn Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET) accreditation for engineering programs.”

Zargari added that the building’s research laboratories, advanced technology, and

engineering equipment will increase enrollment and help students gain hands-on skills.

“Moving science and engineering laboratories and research modules to the new building will elevate STEM programs and enhance students’ success,” he said.

The new building will replace Lappin Hall and the Lloyd-Cassity Building. Built in 1937, with expansions in 1967 and 1993 and a renovation in 1996, Lappin Hall is the current home of science and mathematics programs. The building was named in honor of Dr. Warren C. Lappin, former academic vice president, faculty member and two-time acting president.

MSU built the Lloyd-Cassity Building in 1962, naming the three-story classroom and office structure in honor of Lloyd Cassity of Ashland, a former chair of the Board of Regents. It is currently the home to the Lane-Volgenau Center for STEM Education, MSUTeach and the 21st Century Center for Manufacturing Systems.

MULTIDISCIPLINARY

ACADEMIC BUILDING

An academic hub for music and business

Morehead State is currently designing a new multidisciplinary academic performance space.

This 120,000-square-foot facility will house the business administration and music programs. The $90 million in state funding became available in July 2024, and the programming and design process is underway.

Construction begins in Fall 2025 and concludes in Summer 2028. This facility will replace the Bert T. Combs Building and Baird Music Hall.

MSU constructed the Bert T. Combs Building in 1962 and partially renovated it in 2003. The University named the four-story classroom and office building in honor of former Gov. Bert T. Combs.

Built in 1954 and expanded in 1967, Baird Music Hall is a three-story classroom and office building named in honor of Dr. William Jesse Baird, the University’s fifth president. It includes Duncan Recital Hall and Fulbright Auditorium.

Architect’s rendering

PREFONTAINE HALL

Construction is underway for a new $38 million, 80,000-square-foot residence hall to house 310 students across four residential floors. It will be at the corner of Martindale Drive and Henry Ward Place, across the street from the Space Science Center.

Vice President for Student Affairs Russell Mast said the new hall will feature an open-style lobby area, a lounge space and a central kitchen adjacent to the lobby. The rooms will primarily be four-person suites with a shared bathroom.

“This new hall will enhance our housing stock by providing modern-style rooms. In the past 60+ years, Andrews Hall is the only new hall constructed on campus,” said Mast.

The design is currently underway and expected to be completed this summer. Construction is expected to be completed by Spring 2026.

The new hall will be named in recognition of a gift from loyal Eagle and supporter Andy Prefontaine (Class of 1971)

HONORING THE PAST, PLANNING THE FUTURE

Wetherby Gym & Laughlin Health Building

The developments over the next few years will create exciting change on campus. As we move forward with these projects, we want to also recognize the service provided by the buildings that will eventually be replaced.

In spring and summer of 2024, Wetherby Gym and Laughlin Health Building were removed to create safer and more accessible parking lots for our students. Both of these buildings played a significant role in the MSU experience of many students.

athletic programs until 1981, as well as the athletic programs for Breckinridge School located on MSU’s campus. From athletic matches to commencement to concerts, it was the site of many significant campus events.

Laughlin Health Building was built in 1967 to serve as a classroom, laboratory and office building. Generations of students enjoyed classes under legendary instructors and professors.

Wetherby Gym was built in 1956 and served as the primary facility for MSU’s intercollegiate

As we look to the future, we reflect upon the experiences and memories made in these two special facilities.

NEW RESIDENCE HALL

MSU plans to complete the construction of a second new residence in the spring of 2027. MSU’s Board of Regents and the Council on Postsecondary Education have approved the $10 million building, which will house approximately 80 students. Construction should begin this summer.

The new hall will be similar in architecture to the new hall on Martindale Drive and will

be located near the existing Normal Hall. Normal Hall will be razed over the summer.

Built in 1967, Normal Hall is a four-story, 40unit student apartment building that was renovated in 2004. It was named in honor of Morehead Normal School, which opened in 1887 as the University’s predecessor institution.

PAVING THE WAY FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

MSU is committed to student success and academic excellence. Our physical campus reflects that commitment and we’re investing in facilities to provide students with state-of-the-art learning environments and safe spaces. See updates at www.moreheadstate.edu/forward.

FEBRUARY 26 8 P.M. | JOHNSON ARENA TICKETS: MSUEAGLES.COM/FLATLANDCAVALRY

Morehead State University is bringing back concerts! First on the list is one of the most dynamic groups in country music today, Flatland Cavalry, with special guest The Wilder Blue!

MANUFACTURING SUCCESS

Steve Defazio (Class of 1996, 2001) is a Kentucky native. Born and raised in Louisville, he was familiar with Morehead State when it came time to make his college choice. His interest in bowling, though, was what sealed the deal. Having the opportunity to attend college and bowl collegiately was a dream come true.

While the first draw, bowling was not the only interest bringing him to Morehead. Defazio knew he wanted to pursue a degree in industrial technology, something offered at MSU.

Defazio recognizes that while he came to MSU for bowling and the degree program he wanted, what he got out of the experience was something so much more.

As a student, Defazio built a deep relationship with Professor Dr. Ahmad Zargari, who is now the dean of the College of Science and Engineering. Known across campus as “AZ,” Defazio still turns to him often for career advice.

Defazio made his first professional stop in the automotive technology industry. It was only up from there. Beginning at Cooper Standard Automotive in Mt. Sterling, he advanced into

a manufacturing position with Toyota. The experience allowed him to live in Japan for a time to study the Toyota production system.

He moved up into executive level positions with over 20-plus years in the automotive industry, he enjoyed his work but felt a calling to a different side of the industry. He accepted a position as an equipment manufacturer with a conveyorized carwash company that led to him now serving as Chief Operating Officer of Sonny’s Enterprises, a provider of carwash equipment, parts, and supplies.

Defazio now gives back through service on the Engineering & Technology Management Advisory Board at MSU to honor the service and commitment the program and its faculty gave him. Through his role on the board, he is excited to see the program’s future, especially its new home in the science and engineering building.

“The program deserves the growth that it’s seeing and an enhanced home in the new building,” said Defazio. “I like to say that Morehead is one of the best-kept secrets. Students will come here and get a top-notch education and relationships that last a lifetime. MSU certainly has given me a solid foundation to allow me opportunities beyond my imagination. I enjoy seeing others excel beyond theirs.”

ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT ADVISORY BOARD

The Engineering & Technology Management Advisory Board was established in 1997 to guide programs in manufacturing, engineering and technology management. Comprised of leading professionals in these fields, the board provides expert opinions, suggestions and feedback on these programs and their potential impact on the economic development of the region.

The board also created an endowment to provide merit-based scholarships to help recruit and retain top-quality undergraduate engineering and technology students.

EVERY BRICK HAS A STORY ... share yours!

For Patrick Alia (Class of 1967), Morehead State was where lifelong connections were made. He met his wife, Nancy, on the steps of Baird Music Hall. MSU was where he also met a lifelong friend, W. Howard Orr (Class of 1968). When Orr passed away in 2023, Alia honored their decades-long friendship at the place where it began. He purchased commemorative ADUC bricks (one for himself and one for Orr) and requested the bricks be placed next to one another so the friends would remain side-by-side on the campus they loved so well.

In late 2023, Pat and Nancy, along with Orr’s wife, Peggy, drove to MSU from New Jersey to see the bricks in person and honor their MSU legacy that gave them so much more than an education.

Leave your legacy ...

Commemorate special moments with a personalized brick displayed in MSU Alumni Association’s Legacy Plaza. Found at the center of campus at the Adron Doran University Center (ADUC), the brick walkway features alumni and Greek alumni bricks.

Bricks make great gifts! Purchasing a brick as a gift is a meaningful way to honor someone’s time at MSU. You may request a commemorative gift certificate by emailing alumni@moreheadstate.edu.

Bricks can be ordered with a tax-deductible gift of $200 to support scholarships.

Bricks are installed each fall. Orders placed after June 30, 2025, will be installed in Fall 2026.

BUILDING THE MSU FOUNDATION FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

What is the MSU Foundation?

The MSU Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to assisting Morehead State University with private financial support. The MSU Foundation is non-affiliated and not controlled by the institution, but works alongside the University to provide supplemental support for the University’s greatest needs. We work to meet present needs, but also prepare for the future, ensuring support for the next aspiring doctor, lawyer, teacher, social worker and more.

When I give, am I giving to the MSU Foundation or to MSU?

Charitable donations are all routed through the MSU Foundation. The MSU Foundation houses over 350 funds that support specific scholarships and/or academic programs that directly serve students. The Foundation then works closely with University leadership to spend the funds in accordance with the donors’ wishes. The MSU Foundation will never use a donor gift for any other purpose than the one directed by the donor.

Why give?

As proud Eagles, you can do more than just cheer from the sidelines! Giving back via the MSU Foundation allows you to have a direct impact on providing student-centered support for the next generation. Be it through supporting a scholarship fund that helps a student pay for school or supporting the academic program that gave you your own educational foundation, your gift has a purpose.

What fund should I give to?

It’s your choice! We take pride in working with the University to identify specific needs and special projects that we may promote throughout the year. But all year long, our goal is for you to make giving personal. What fund or cause speaks to you? The choice is yours. View a list of funds by scanning the code.

A CAREER TO REMEMBER: Always Humble & Kind

Dr. Dan Connell’s career at Morehead State University began in 1987. Nearly 40 years later, Connell retired from MSU, leaving a legacy of service and impact.

Connell served in various roles throughout his time on campus, with most of his time focused on academic services, lecturing, and regional/ extended campus support. Most notably, he served as the associate provost and assistant vice president of regional education and outreach.

When Connell made the decision to retire, he certainly embodied the mindset of “leaving something better than you found it.” His work often allowed him to pursue grant opportunities to enhance MSU’s regional education and outreach services. Shortly before his retirement, Connell secured a significant $2.2 million grant for rural education (read more at right).

Though his retirement left big shoes to fill, his efforts over the last decades ensured that the programs he was passionate about could carry on and continue to grow.

“I had the pleasure of working with Dan for nearly 20 years and would describe him as the definition of a difference maker,” said Director of Transfer Services Jen Timmermann (Class of 2007). “The example he set reminded our team of why we’re working at MSU - to help others and to positively impact our region. The ripple effect of his leadership and service will make an impact for generations to come.”

Connell’s commitment to MSU did not end with his retirement, though. He partnered with the MSU Foundation to establish the Donna and Dan Connell Scholarship Endowment, recognizing his commitment to education and that of his late wife, Donna. The fund will award scholarships to incoming first-year students participating in MSU’s TRIO programs. Recipients must also be first-generation college students.

“I so enjoyed my career here,” said Connell. “Our scholarship will hopefully ensure that future students receive the same enjoyment from MSU as I did.”

MSU RECEIVES RURAL EDUCATION FUNDS

MSU was one of four colleges in Kentucky to receive federal grant funding to improve rural education.

The University received over $2.2 million to assist high school students with college enrollment and provide internships and career opportunities to postsecondary students. The funding is from the Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development (RPED) grant program, which promotes the development of career pathways toward promising, in-demand occupations in the region.

AN IMPACT THAT LIVES ON

Alison “Ali” Ishmael Staten (Class of 2013) came to MSU in the fall of 2009 after graduating from Springboro High School in Ohio. Her college choice followed in the footsteps of her parents, Roger (Class of 1982) and Terri Ishmael (Class of 1982). She was an active member of the Kappa Delta Sorority and the Student Alumni Ambassadors organization.

After graduation, she returned to Springboro with her high school sweetheart and fellow Eagle, Lucas Staten (Class of 2013). The couple began careers in education and were soon married. They welcomed their son, Eli, in 2018.

In 2020, Ali was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer. After a yearlong battle with the disease, where she put up a brave fight and rallied supporters across the country, she lost her fight on Dec. 20, 2021, at age 30.

In honor of her short but impactful career as an educator, a mural was created at Clinton

Massie Elementary where she taught 5th grade. This special reminder of her legacy is not the only way her memory is being carried forward to future students.

To recognize her time as an MSU Eagle, Ali’s friend and classmate, Wilson Gabbard (Class of 2011, 2012), initiated a fundraising campaign to raise money for a scholarship in her memory. The Ali Ishmael Staten Memorial Scholarship received overwhelming response from her Kappa Delta Sorority sisters. Roger and Terri were inspired to help make the scholarship permanent and in partnership with other supporters, the fund reached endowment status in 2024.

The scholarship is awarded to students majoring in education, with preference given to students from Ohio, specifically Clinton Massie, and members of Kappa Delta. Though Ali’s time on earth was cut short, her passion and commitment as an Eagle will live on forever.

Lucas and Eli pictured at the Mural Dedication Ceremony.

INTERNSHIP SPARKS CAREER

Abbey Cooper turns internship into career upon graduation

Recent graduate Abbey Cooper (Class of 2024) understands the value of an internship. She gained professional experience as an intern with Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, LLC., (Deloitte) and walked straight off the graduation stage into a job with the company as a firstyear audit and assurance staff member.

Cooper majored in accounting and was an undergraduate assistant to Dr. Janet Ratliff (Class of 1991, 1992), associate professor of management/entrepreneurship. She became deeply involved on campus, serving as an Eagle guide and a member of the Future Business Leaders of America— Collegiate and Delta Zeta sorority. She knew she wanted to pursue a career in corporate accounting and accepted an internship with Deloitte during the summer of 2023.

“I wanted to work for this particular company because it is a prestigious accounting firm,” Cooper said. “As students, we are taught concepts from books, but as employees,

we can utilize the concepts in books and apply them to real-world situations.”

Along with Ratliff, Cooper said other professors like Dr. Stephen Brigham, assistant professor of accounting, Dr. Kim Fatten, assistant professor of accounting, and Cooper’s advisor Dr. Sam Stapleton (Class of 2022), director of the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program and instructor of management, helped her in various ways as an undergraduate student.

“These professors have pushed my academic abilities and ensured I would be prepared with the information I will apply in my career,” Cooper said. “Morehead State University has contributed to my success as a future certified public accountant through professors who have experience in the field of accounting and can provide real-world experiences and apply them to ‘from the book’ concepts to gain a full understanding of topics, as well as their continuous support.”

Learn more about the Elmer R. Smith College of Business and Technology at www.moreheadstate.edu/business

WHY I GIVE

DAVID LYNCH (CLASS OF 1992)

David Lynch’s path in life led him to MSU as a nontraditional student. After graduating from Paul Blazer High School in Ashland, Lynch entered the workforce, later getting married and starting a family.

As his family grew, Lynch felt a calling back to higher education to pursue a more stable career. With guidance from his aunt, a financial aid counselor at Ashland Community College (ACC), he began taking classes at ACC, earning an associate’s degree in accounting. He then enrolled at MSU, again with financial guidance from his aunt, pursuing his bachelor’s degree in business. He commuted to classes from Ashland, carrying a heavy load of 18 credit hours per semester. His final semester, he received special permission to take 22 hours. He graduated with his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in 1992 at 34. He went on to a successful career, offering fire protection services to commercial businesses in the tri-state area.

Years later, Lynch learned that his aunt had not only provided him with guidance on applying for financial aid but was also a bit of a philanthropist herself. She helped him apply for scholarships but also sent payments — unbeknownst to Lynch — to cover his remaining tuition balance.

Inspired by her generosity, Lynch established the David A. Lynch Scholarship Endowment to pay it forward to future Eagles. The scholarship is awarded to undergraduate students from the Ashland area pursuing degrees in the Elmer R. Smith College of Business & Technology.

“I don’t look at my giving to MSU as anything special – it is simply returning something back to the school that gave so much to me. I had a great learning experience at MSU. While I got a bit of a later start than others, the education I received at MSU still led me to a highly successful career that has allowed me to provide more opportunity for my family. I would not have been successful in higher ed were it not for my aunt providing me with the guidance and financial assistance I needed. Now that I am able to offer the same to someone else, it is my honor to do so.”

Are you interested in giving back?

Visit alumni.moreheadstate.edu/waystohelp to see how you can get started today.

A FAMILIAR TUNE

J.T. Cure’s musical success has MSU roots

It’s March 2024, and J.T. Cure (Class of 2003) finds himself at PetCo Stadium, home of the San Diego Padres. He’s on a large stage, bass guitar in hand, in front of tens of thousands of screaming, singing fans. He’s sharing that stage with skilled musicians (including Willie Nelson’s harmonica player for over five decades, Mickey Raphael) and relishing in the joy of providing support, structure and color to the words and melodies of his friend, Grammy Award-winning country star Chris Stapleton, who those fans came to see.

It’s a moment from Stapleton’s recent “All-American Road Show” tour that the humble Elkhorn City native said feels real but also doesn’t.

“I don’t want to come across as being arrogant or anything, but there comes a point where it hit me where, if I decided to snap out of it and wake up … of course, it was a dream,” Cure said. “I’m very blessed, and it’s not lost on me.”

Cure can recall moments like this that paved the way for the ones he enjoys. The celebrities suddenly showing up to packed West Coast

club shows after Stapleton’s debut album “Traveller” swept the Country Music Awards (CMAs) in 2015. The living room jam sessions with Stapleton and his wife, Morgane, after Cure moved to Nashville to make it in music or playing at Music City bars like 12th and Porter or The Basement with Stapleton’s previous band, The Jompson Brothers.

But one thing Cure can say with genuine certainty: None of those moments, relationships, and success in fields he didn’t even anticipate would happen without Morehead State.

Cure’s father, Butch Cure, played guitar and bought J.T. his first six-string at age 10 or 11. He bounced around between various string and brass instruments as a kid (not to mention keyboard) before he settled on bass guitar and stuck with it after learning tuba bass lines to play in his high school pep band at basketball games.

He liked music so much that he decided to attend Morehead State.

Photo credit: Becky Fluke.

“I want to go to Morehead because they had a great music program. Also, all my friends are going to Morehead,” he said.

Soon after arriving in Morehead, he met Jesse Wells (Class of 2007), touring fiddle player for Grammy-nominated Kentucky singer/songwriter Tyler Childers and former traditional music archivist, studio manager, and instructor at MSU’s Kentucky Center for Traditional Music (KCTM). The two made a quick musical connection, playing jazz, Bluegrass and southern rock shows, festivals, and receptions around town.

“As a place, it’s probably shaped more of who I am, other than my hometown, as anywhere ... The things I’ve learned while I was there and the people I got to meet; I think I’ll always carry that with me my whole life.”

“Whatever would come up, I would at least try to fake it to get through a gig because it was a little extra spending money for me,” Cure said.

In early 1999, Wells introduced Cure to Stapleton, his friend and Johnson Central High School classmate. After meeting and jamming, Cure experienced some of Stapleton’s early original songs and what he described as an unbelievable voice.

“It was kind of mind-blowing that someone could sing songs that good and write songs that good,” Cure said. “I knew that I wanted to play as much music as possible with him from the time he opened his mouth.”

While the genesis of Stapleton and Cure’s musical relationship was off campus, part of Cure’s successful future was taking shape on

campus. He said instructors like the late Ray Ross, assistant professor of music; the late Professor Emeritus Jay Flippin (Class of 1970); Professor Emeritus Frank Oddis; and Dr. Gordon Towell, former director of jazz studies, pushed Cure as a musician both in the classroom and when they asked him to play with the Faculty Jazz Quintet. He said Ross’ mentorship was beneficial for both his musicianship and character.

“I still carry around a lot of stuff I learned from him, even if it wasn’t music,” Cure said. “I can’t say enough great things about him.”

Cure gravitated to musical performance, but his tendency to avoid being front and center made him avoid music teaching. Instead, he went from notes to numbers, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in 2003. Cure wanted to stay in Morehead, but that didn’t work out and he moved to Nashville, where he was hired as an accountant at Vanderbilt University. He would later have to work out an arrangement with Vanderbilt to switch to parttime status, playing with Stapleton on tour while finding time to log in to work from the tour bus.

While Cure has no intentions of hanging up his bass guitar any time soon, he finally decided to leave Vanderbilt after 16 years. After Cure won a Grammy for co-writing the song “Cold,” which won for Best Country Song in 2022, he decided to make it official.

“I think that was a good jumping-off point to say, well, I think this music thing is going to last,” Cure said. “It was kind of a bittersweet thing to kind of say, I’m just going to unplug this side of my brain a little bit and focus on this.”

During this interview, Cure was unwinding from the stress of stage and travel at his home in Nashville, where he enjoys tending to his tomato plants, reading a book, or going on the occasional hike. He may mess around and record some bass guitar to an audience of two (his cats) or catch a flight to Stapleton’s place in Santa Fe, New Mexico, for a week for a writing session on some downtime between shows.

“When you slow down is when, at least for me, is when you can let the creativity part in,” Cure said. “When I’m off, I can just noodle around and see what comes out.”

Cure still makes it a point to stay connected to his alma mater and fellow Eagles in ways big and small. Most notably, in 2022, Cure collaborated with Jared (Class of 2016) and Joshua Ravenscraft , sibling co-founders of New Frontier Outfitters, to create a corduroy hat for Cure featuring his signature 1962 Fender Precision Bass (a.k.a. Purdy), with proceeds going to Outlaw State of Kind, a charity founded by Chris and Morgane Stapleton.

“It was something I was really hoping to do at some point,” he said. “It’s really cool to work with folks that are from where I’m from and are passionate about the same things I’m passionate about.”

When Cure isn’t relaxing at home, he is the musical director for Stapleton on and off the road, coordinating rehearsals, serving

as the liaison between Stapleton and the band and selecting songs for certain TV appearances. He even helped pick out the songs and artists featured on the newly created signature radio station, Chris Stapleton Radio, on SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

Cure said things for Stapleton and company feel like they are on an upward trajectory, which likely means more moments that include baseball stadiums, award ceremonies, and talk show stages.

That said, the mountains of Morehead, the campus, and the people of MSU are never far from his mind. He remembers the excitement of those early band gigs around Morehead with Wells and Stapleton or the MSU faculty playing jazz. He recalls taking in the scenery at nearby Cave Run Lake. He misses Morehead and MSU and enjoys the rare instances when he gets to come back. It’s a place and a community he reluctantly left, prepared and determined to pursue a dream that turned out bigger and better than expected.

J.T. Cure (center) with vocalist Morgane Stapleton (right) during a concert. Photo credit: Andy Barron.

Juan Dontrese Brown (Class of 1998) grew up in housing projects on the east side of Louisville. He said he witnessed and experienced poverty and crime but also soaked in his community’s connectedness and culture, with the example of Louisville native and boxing legend Muhammad Ali serving as a constant model and motivation.

“He didn’t ask for permission; he asked for forgiveness. He was just who he was, and he was just confident in it, and that was what really inspired me,” Brown said. “Go out and be who you truly are to your fullest potential.”

Brown, who now lives in Richmond, Virginia, is a proud Morehead State Eagle who soars as a designer, creator, and leader. Brown is a former director of brand creative at Capital One and former creative director of marketing at Victorinox/Swiss Army Knife Inc.

career CREATING WITH PURPOSE

MSU prepared Dontrese for a creative design

Before Brown found success in his field by capitalizing on opportunities, he often created them himself.

He enrolled at Georgetown College with aspirations to attend college on an athletic scholarship and pursue a career as a traditional artist.

“I thought I was going to be an abstract painter, traveling Europe, speaking French with a beret. Honestly,” Brown said, laughing.

During his sophomore year, Brown was in an art class with a guest speaker on graphic design. While he initially thought creating art with computers was “cheating” and “crazy,” it sparked him creatively. In collaboration with the late art professor Jim McCormick, he helped build the curriculum that would become Georgetown College’s graphic design program, with Brown as its first official graduate in 1996.

He then enrolled at Morehead State to pursue a graduate degree in art. He said the MSU faculty’s talent level helped push him to become a better artist. The late Deeno Golding, who Brown said was the first black male teacher he ever had as a student and a father figure, challenged Brown to improve and step up his artistic game. Professor

of Art Gary Mesa-Gaido helped him expand his boundaries as an interdisciplinary artist and designer and ended up attending Brown’s wedding years after he graduated from MSU.

“I think anyone who has met Juan will tell you that the first thing that stands out is his spirit. He has a positive and confident spirit about him, and he invites you to be the same,” MesaGaido said. “Sometimes you get the chance as a teacher to see someone do exactly what they set out to do and become something even larger and greater than what they initially believed they could be. It amazes me just how much impact he has made on so many people’s lives in the short time that I’ve known him.”

The bonds he formed with his MSU instructors are connections he treasures today.

“Just to see their intentionality in making sure they connected with us and showed that they cared for us was tremendous,” Brown said. “These are relationships that I will never let go of. They are just so strong.”

After graduating from MSU, he returned to his Georgetown College alma mater to teach art and coach football. He arranged with Georgetown to keep his positions and travel to earn a Master of Fine Arts from the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD, where Golding was an alum). Just like Golding, it pushed him to be better.

“It was one of the toughest environments I had ever been in,” he said. “The challenge was, could I be as good as someone from Asia, as someone from Germany, as someone from Africa?”

As Brown came into his own as a designer and creative director, got married to his wife, Megan Brown Burke, and became a father of two, he began to consider how he could use his talent, experience and ambition toward community development and building up others.

While Brown moved to Richmond for the position with Capitol One, he became a soughtafter public speaker and is making a difference through design with his company Hidden in Plain Site. Hidden in Plain Site is a virtual reality exploration of several lesser-known historical sites that tell the story and history of the Black experience in America. He also led efforts to rename Richmond, Virginia’s Boulevard to Arthur Ashe Boulevard and establish Cristo Rey Richmond High School (CRRHS), a high school specifically for the city’s underserved youth.

“I have this unique interdisciplinary combination of creativity, business savvy, marketing, communication and also just strategy around things that you can just take that and put it into any scenario and it’s going to live and it’s going to prosper. You put me in a situation and I see something that I think can happen, I’m going to make that thing happen,” Brown said. “It’s what I call my superpower. I have this audacious confidence that everything I touch is going to change the world.”

Brown’s career is coming full circle. He was asked to help with a new 2025 marketing tagline campaign for Georgetown College and returned to launch the campaign this past August. In addition, MSU’s Office of Alumni Relations & Development and the MSU Alumni Association recently honored Brown by selecting him for the 2025 Alumni Hall of Fame.

Despite his success and impact, Brown never forgets the places and people behind him, such as the art professors at Morehead State, who pushed him to realize his potential and go on to help other people and communities do the same.

“I feel like I’m just scratching the surface,” Brown said. “Time doesn’t care about anything, and who knows when it’s their time. I’m going to continue to push as hard as I can for as long as I can so I can do something to impact the world to make it better.”

WHY I VOLUNTEER

WHY I SERVE

MEME RATLIFF (CLASS OF 1995, 2001)

MeMe (center) with fellow Alumni Board members, Kelly Holdren-Pillow (left, Class of 1982, 1984) and Arlie Wells Bailey (right, Class of 1994)

My time at MSU was so meaningful, and it has inspired me to want to be a representative for Morehead State any time the opportunity arises. I have served as an ambassador to the Louisville area, helping to recruit prospective students. I have given awards to future Eagles at senior ceremonies at countless schools in the city, hosted events for local alumni, and delivered literature about MSU to prospective students in both public and private schools in Jefferson County.

WHAT MOTIVATES ME

I do not think I appreciated what a special place Morehead State was while I was on campus. It was only after I was approached to come back as a distinguished alumni from my department (Health, Physical Education, & Recreation) to speak with current students that it began to resonate with me how impactful the University was in my life. Since that time, I have strived to give as much back to my alma mater as it gave me. My goal is to be a positive example for the University whenever I wear blue and gold!

WHY I SERVE ON THE ALUMNI BOARD

Years ago, I was first given the opportunity to serve by MSU Retiree, Tami Jones (Class of 1982). It was an honor then and it still is now! I have served on every board committee, working on everything from alumni award nominations and selections, to planning events, and working with MSU staff on engagement strategies. If you have ever thought about serving formally for MSU, being an Alumni Board member is a rewarding opportunity that keeps you connected to your alma mater.

MSU Alumni Association Board of Directors

The board is a group of alumni volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to making their alma mater an even better place.

Are you interested in serving? Scan the code and apply today!

HONORING DR. GEORGE KERR

With the release of the movie “Oppenheimer” in 2023, the history of the atomic bomb once again became a popular topic. But for the Kerr family, the subject was something they’d discussed many times before. The patriarch of the family, the late Dr. George D. Kerr (Class of 1962), spent nearly 40 years of his career devoted to studying the effects of radiation on the survivors of the atomic blasts in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

From 1964 to 2000, Kerr, an internationally known health physicist, worked at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. He also served as a U.S. consultant for radiation dosimetry and shielding to the Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission, now the Radiation Effects Research Foundation (RERF).

“He was so proud of his work,” said his wife, Sarah “Sally” Coleman Kerr. “Our family had the privilege of living in Hiroshima for one of the many years he was associated with RERF.”

four siblings, he wanted to find an affordable college that provided a quality education. Upon visiting the Morehead State campus, he met John Collis (Class of 1949), long-time manager of the University Bookstore, who was friendly and welcoming. This connection sealed his decision to attend MSU. At the same time, Sally Coleman, a Morehead resident and a 1959 graduate of Breckinridge High School, was also enrolled at MSU. The two met and fell in love. They married and moved soon after George’s graduation, but Morehead always remained close to their hearts.

Radiation protection, not only in this country but throughout the world, is based on the data we have gathered from atomic bomb survivors. George’s research contributed to the development of the safety standards used when people receive X-rays or work with radioactive materials. Other professional projects involved the transport and shielding of radioactive materials, dose reconstruction, risk assessment, nuclear accident dosimetry, and nuclear weapons effects.

Originally from Circleville, Ohio, Kerr was the first in his family to attend college. The youngest of

“Every visit to MSU means a return to my hometown as well,” Sally continues. “Morehead is thriving, and the University, student enrollment, and facilities seem to be always expanding. However, what remains constant is the warmth, friendliness, and dedication of the administration, faculty and staff extended to students and alumni alike. Although no family members remain in Morehead, I still have that feeling of homecoming each time I return to the MSU campus.”

To honor their love and commitment to MSU, and the friendly face that drew George to campus, the couple established the John Collis Scholarship in 2013. After George passed away in 2022, Sally established a separate endowment in his memory to support students studying math or physics, where each scholarship recipient can be connected to the legacy of learning and profound work of Dr. George Kerr for years to come.

RISING THROUGH THE RANKS

Alum, soldier and mom of twins, LTC Whitney Lee Cissell faces every challenge head-on.

LTC Whitney Lee Cissell (Class of 2007) grew up in Shepherdsville, KY. A multi-talented athlete, Cissell played six different sports during high school. However, soccer was her true passion and the guiding factor in her collegiate choice. Recruited to Morehead State to continue her soccer career, Cissell said the campus and community felt like home.

With an interest in physical activity, Cissell filled some of her first-year electives with Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) classes alongside some of her sisters in Kappa Delta sorority. However, it was not until a devastating injury ended her soccer dreams that she considered ROTC as the basis of her education.

“I came to MSU on a soccer scholarship,” explains Cissell. “And when I injured my back and could no longer play, that naturally meant I lost my scholarship, too. So, to be honest, I joined ROTC to continue funding my education, otherwise I would have had to find another way to pay for school.”

Her back injury would continue to provide hurdles in the ROTC realm. She struggled to get the medical approval necessary to continue, but Cissell had the right people in her corner. She had built a strong relationship with her unit commander, Lieutenant Colonel Bonnie Noyes. When Noyes traveled to professional conferences, she always brought information on her current cadets. While at a women’s leadership conference, Noyes met the lead medical officer for the Army and pleaded Cissell’s case. With her continued proof of physical fitness despite her back injury, Cissell received the necessary medical approvals to keep her ROTC journey going.

At the time, she still felt the military was a short-term plan. She enjoyed it but had an itch to consider coaching soccer since she could not play as long as she had hoped. But

after completing her required years of service, Cissell found that doors kept opening for her – and she kept walking through them.

“I don’t like to sit still,” Cissell said. “I had an interest in considering deployment and exposing myself to a different environment. So, I took a deployment, and I loved the challenge.”

At various points along the way, Cissell found new opportunities to serve – and to learn. After her first of three deployments, she had the chance to start pursuing a master’s degree online, opting for early childhood education and development. This was the first of four – yes, four – master’s degrees that Cissell earned during her military service. She also holds degrees in military arts, public administration, and strategic studies with an emphasis on nuclear policy. She is also now pursuing a doctorate in defense and strategic security.

During each deployment, Cissell deployed as part of a highly trained explosive ordinance disposal team. The specialty seemed challenging, which immediately drew her in.

Cissell jokes she traded little weapons for big weapons, but the deployment would nurture her desire to serve in leadership. She had the chance to go from the one being on the ground to the one helping to build the weapons strategy.

“I enjoy being a first responder. I feel like if I am going to be involved, I might as well be in charge and the one that people call,” she shares.

Cissell continued to take any opportunity given to her and advanced through the ranks quickly. In March of 2024, Cissell was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. She is an Army Functional Area (FA) 52 Nuclear and Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Officer and the Human Resources Command Career Manager for all FA52 and FA47 officers. Cissell guides officers on the correct track for their desired career path. She also gets to ensure their families are cared for along the way, which is an extra-special honor.

“I’ve had the opportunity to do so much already in my military career, and none of that would be possible were it not for the support of my family,”

she expresses. “Careers in the military are hard, and having a supportive partner is imperative.”

Between her military service, deployments, and multiple degrees, Cissell met and married the love of her life, Derek Cissell. It is a good thing Whitney likes to stay busy because in 2017, the couple welcomed twins – a son and a daughter.

“It’s a privilege to show other women that you can have a successful military career and also be a mother,” Cissell continues. “But I could not do it without Derek. Having a spouse who allows me to put my career first and who is confident enough to stand in the background sometimes makes all the difference.”

Cissell is confident that her foundation built at MSU put her on the path to the career success she is now experiencing. The ROTC program provided her with leadership skills – specifically not just leading down but leading laterally

and leading your peers. Her time with the MSU soccer team kept her in physical shape and taught valuable lessons on working as a member of a team. All of those skills, combined with what she calls invaluable support from non-commissioned officers who taught her along the way, led her to where she is now.

Her Kappa Delta sorority provided her with lifelong relationships and a support system she continues to turn to this day. Her best friend and sorority sister, Kenna Allen Gauche (Class of 2008, 2009), is her biggest cheerleader. Other sisters, including Niki Martin Stroud (Class of 2007) and Larry Sue Deel Diaz (Class of 2006), have provided their own examples of notable military service.

“I loved my time at MSU,” Cissell shares. “I would encourage any student to give it a shot and jump in headfirst, and make the most of your time here. Give every opportunity a chance because you never know where it may lead you.”

Cadet Argueta is one of many cadets who found a pathway to a lifelong career through participation in MSU’s Army ROTC program. Through classroom instruction, physical fitness training and special events, cadets learn discipline, teamwork and other valuable skills that will serve them throughout life. At each commencement ceremony, graduating senior cadets earn their college degrees and a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. They only soar higher from there.

To learn more about MSU’s Army ROTC and military science programs, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/rotc.

Photo credit: MSU Eagle Battalion

KATHRYNE ARGUETA

PAYING IT FORWARD

Kris Bentley (Class of 1972, 1978) grew up in southeast Kentucky in Letcher County. A graduate of Fleming-Neon High School, he admits he did not even know what college was until his freshman teacher polled the class one day on if they thought they would ever attend.

With the idea planted in his head, Bentley paid attention when fellow classmates made their college choice. His senior year, he made a visit to Morehead State and would eventually join 20 classmates, out of his graduating class of 88, at MSU.

After spotting an ad in a magazine for a role with Hughes Aircraft company, he took his Air Force experience and worked with Hughes for the majority of his career in computer graphics design. When Hughes Aircraft sold 22 years later, Bentley stepped away – and finally stepped into the classroom.

He began a second career as a high school math teacher in Texas and soon found teaching to be an even harder job than his aircraft technology career.

“When teaching entry-level math, I had to realize that most people didn’t want to be there,” Bentley says. “I had to adjust my mindset to understand that not everyone was as interested in math as me.”

Bentley majored in mathematics, thinking he might go into teaching one day, but it took him a bit to figure out a plan.

“You figure out what you’re doing much later after college starts,” Bentley admits.

Bentley described his time at MSU very “experiencefocused.” A mandatory student fee covered expenses for many campus activities, so he felt he might as well participate. From concerts to plays to poetry readings, Bentley made the most of his college experience and he will tell you today that a large piece of what he gained from MSU was experience and exposure outside the classroom.

A strong math student, Bentley had the opportunity to fill in for some math instructors when there were unexpected absences. Despite getting his feet wet with teaching, Bentley’s first stop out of college was the military. Drafted during the Vietnam War, Bentley took a role in accounting and finance with the U.S. Air Force.

During a delayed enlistment with his service, Bentley had the chance to return to MSU to pursue a master’s degree. He still wanted to teach – college level, at the time – but he decided to pursue a different path.

Recognizing that the education and experiences he received at MSU allowed him success in not just one, but two careers, Bentley began considering how he might pay it forward when making his estate plans. Bentley didn’t have philanthropic intentions when he first drafted his will. A couple of decades later, his circumstances had changed, and he realized he had the chance to make a real impact.

“I was fortunate to attend college with scholarships and grants. I didn’t owe anything, but I had little left for extras,” says Bentley. “I wondered what I might have done differently if I didn’t have financial limitations and I wanted to provide a burden-free opportunity for a student.”

Through Bentley’s estate, he will one day leave Morehead State with a planned gift valued at over $2 million. The funds will support an endowment awarded to Eastern Kentucky students studying mathematics.

“Morehead State is still providing opportunity all these years later,” Bentley continues. “There are bright minds with a lot of potential in eastern Kentucky and we need to support them on their journey.”

MURALS & MARKETING

Madeline Tipton turned creativity and communication into a career

Madeline Tipton (Class of 2020) knows firsthand that there is something about a mural that clicks with the public.

“They change the perception of a town,” Tipton said. “I think it makes people excited, and it creates a ripple effect of that excitement.”

Since April 2021, the Ashland native has created 57 murals across Kentucky and neighboring states like Ohio and West Virginia. Her unexpected path to becoming a full-time mural artist happened because of her time at Morehead State.

While Tipton initially enrolled to pursue a degree in art, she joined Gamma Phi Beta sorority in the fall of 2017 and participated in fundraising and philanthropy projects. She tapped into a passion she had in high school for charity work, which led to her switching her major to strategic communication, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication in 2020.

While working at a boutique near her hometown and selling her artistic creations on Etsy after graduation, The Nest Day Spa in Russell asked her to create a mural for their business. As her demand as a mural artist grew, her older sister, Allyson Eyerman, helped her start the LLC she dubbed The Tipton Collective. Here, she provides marketing consulting and brand design for local and even international businesses (she recently worked with a fashion brand based in Uganda).

With every new art project, marketing client or opportunity to give back, Tipton continues to carve out her unique and fulfilling career path thanks to the passions and people she found at Morehead State.

“I learned the skills, but I think a lot of it involved just getting myself out there and finding my own voice,” she said. “Morehead just allowed me to find myself and who I care about and be confident in it.”

On the hillside above campus, MSU’s Space Science Center has a 12-meter and a 21-meter tracking antenna, with a third antenna to be installed soon.

These tracking antennas give students hands-on experience with technology and research and are part of MSU’s work as the first nonNASA node on the NASA Deep Space Network.

As a graduate or friend of MSU, you know firsthand the amazing experiences students have as part of the Eagle family. If you know a high school student who could be a great fit for MSU, let us know!

By referring an Eagle, you’ll receive a free MSU T-shirt and the referred student will have a chance to receive a $1,000 referral scholarship, awarded in your name.

ALUMNI.MOREHEADSTATE.EDU/REFERANEAGLE

Blue & Gold Alumni Weekend: February 7-8

OVC Basketball Tournament: March 5-8

DG 55th Anniversary Weekend: March 7-8

We ♥︎ MSU Giving Day: March 27-28

SFE 55th Reunion Weekend: April 11-12

Annual Spring Gala: April 26

Geology Reunion Weekend: June 27-28

Family Weekend: September 26-27

Homecoming 2025: October 16-18

YOUR LEGACY. THEIR FUTURE.

For more than 135 years, Morehead State has offered opportunities to thousands of Eagles. We invite you to consider the impact you can have on future students. Whether it’s increasing your annual gift or exploring a planned gift commitment, you will make a difference for the next generation.

No matter your interests, a planned gift through your estate can leave a lasting impact that supports a cause or program that is meaningful to you.

Eagles Jace Winkleman and Ally Huffman Fall 2010 & Fall 2024

HOMECOMING 2025

THURSDAY, OCT. 16

• Homecoming Parade

• Young Alumni event

FRIDAY, OCT. 17

• Memorial Brick Ceremony

• Homecoming Kickoff Reception

• Alumni Awards Ceremony

SATURDAY, OCT. 18

• Breakfast with Beaker

• Tailgate Deck hosted by Alumni Association

• Eagle Football Stay up to date on Homecoming events at ALUMNI.MOREHEADSTATE.EDU/HOMECOMING.

To register to attend Homecoming 2025 as a 50th Reunion celebrant, contact the Alumni Association at 606-783-2033, 1-800-783-ALUM or events@moreheadstate.edu. Advance registration is required.