Dear McMurry Alumni and Friends,
When I first visited campus last September during the presidential search process, I immediately felt the warmth and spirit of this remarkable place. That sense of welcome has only deepened since I officially began my service in January. My husband, Jeff, and I are so grateful for how the McMurry and Abilene communities have embraced us with open arms, generous hearts, and a shared belief in the promise of this university.
Since arriving, one of the greatest privileges has been meeting the people who make McMurry so special — our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends. Every conversation has deepened my appreciation for the passion and commitment that define this university. Whether reflecting on McMurry’s proud history or dreaming about its future together, these moments reaffirm why I chose McMurry and believe its best days lie ahead.
This spring semester has been a season of momentum and meaningful milestones. We marked a major advancement in healthcare education with the complete acquisition and dedication of the McMurry University Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing. The Women’s Leadership Luncheon, featuring Shannon Sedgwick Davis ’96, inspired our students and guests with a powerful message of courage and service. We celebrated 10 exceptional individuals during the Night of Distinction: Alumni Achievement Awards and honored the generosity of our dedicated donors at the Pillars of Philanthropy: Night of Gratitude dinner. And our annual Symposium for Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Works showcased the depth of student talent and inquiry across our academic disciplines.
We also celebrated the reaffirmation of our accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This vital achievement reflects the dedication and excellence of our faculty, staff, and academic leaders.
That same spirit of excellence was on full display during Spring Commencement, one of the most meaningful moments of my early presidency. It was a true honor to celebrate the Class of 2025 as they crossed the stage, ready to embark on lives of leadership, service, and professional success in their chosen fields.
Even as we celebrated our graduating seniors, we welcomed many prospective students. We admitted students to campus — young people whose enthusiasm and optimism are a powerful reminder that McMurry’s future is already taking shape.
To ensure we are poised for continued impact, we’ve launched a university-wide assessment in partnership with Mindstream, a higher education consulting firm, to help us identify new opportunities and strengthen existing efforts. This work will provide crucial insights to ensure we stay on track to achieve the goals laid out in our Second Century Strategic Plan — helping us grow thoughtfully, innovate effectively, and maximize our impact in the years ahead.
As I look back on these first few months, I’m especially thankful for two leaders who helped make my transition to McMurry a smooth and meaningful one: Kathi Edwards, chair of the Board of Trustees, and Ken Wheeler ’10, president of the Alumni Association. Their steady guidance and deep commitment to McMurry have been invaluable. As they complete their terms, we’re grateful for all they’ve done to strengthen this community. I’m also looking forward to working with our incoming board chair, Austin Pittman ’91, and new alumni association president, Deena Duarte ’99. Their energy and passion for McMurry will help us continue confidently moving forward.
Looking ahead, I invite you to join me in celebrating my inauguration as the 11th president of McMurry University. From September 22–27, 2025, we will come together for a week filled with celebration, reflection, and community — officially marking the start of my presidency while reaffirming McMurry’s values, aspirations, and the bold steps we’re taking into our second century. I would be honored to share this special moment with you. Your presence will make this milestone all the more meaningful as we rise with purpose, transforming lives and communities together.
Thank you for the many ways you support this university — through your presence, gifts, encouragement, and prayers.
Together, We Are McMurry. Rooted in tradition, rising to meet tomorrow’s challenges, and creating opportunities for future generations.
With gratitude,
Dr. Lynne Murray
President, McMurry University