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MURRAY, Ky. -- Dr. Ron K. Patterson has been announced as the 15th president of Murray State University. The MSU Board of Regents Presidential Search Committee made the announcement.
Patterson will begin his role July 1, 2025. He will succeed President Dr. Bob Jackson, who will retire June 30, 2025.
Patterson serves as president of Chadron State College, one of three state college institutions within the Nebraska State College System and an institution with approximately 2,300 students and 600 full-time faculty and staff. Patterson launched and chaired the college's new five-year strategic plan, established strategic enrollment partnerships, commenced new academic programs and partnerships, furthered external relationships with federal, state and local government leaders and fostered an environment of success within the college's Division II athletic programs.
Prior to Chadron State College, Patterson served at the University of North Alabama. His administrative progression at the University of North Alabama included service as associate vice president for enrollment management, chief enrollment officer, and chief enrollment officer and special assistant to the president for diversity and inclusion with responsibility for both enrollment management, academic programs and centers and diversity and inclusion.
Prior to the University of North Alabama, Patterson served for 14 years as an administrator at Marietta College, University of Central Arkansas, University of Tennessee Health Science Center and Christian Brothers University in Memphis. He also spent four years as an assistant men's basketball coach and head men's golf coach at Tusculum College and Marietta College.
Patterson is from Corinth, Miss. He and his wife, Jenny, have two children, Olivia and Braylon.
"I am truly humbled and honored to be selected as president of Murray State University," Patterson said.
"My family and I are honored and privileged to join the excellent students, faculty, staff and city of Murray to continue the great momentum of Dr. Bob Jackson and the leadership team, capital improvement projects and rich tradition of Murray State University in its second century."
"We are excited to welcome Dr. Ron K. Patterson as the 15th President of Murray State University," Murray State Board of Regents Chair Leon Owens said. "Dr. Patterson brings considerable experience in numerous areas of higher education, all of which are necessary, to continue the upward trajectory of our institution. Dr. Patterson is a servant leader and a proven collaborator who has a commitment toward excellence. We welcome Dr. Patterson, along with his wife Jenny and children Olivia and Braylon to our campus and broader community.
Details will be forthcoming on a welcome event and press conference for the campus and broader community.
