Legacy and Community

Founded in 1923, McMurry University is a private, United Methodist university in Abilene, Texas, committed to academic excellence, leadership, and service. Rooted in a strong liberal arts tradition, McMurry provides a values-driven education that prepares students for meaningful careers and purposeful lives.

Students benefit from small class sizes and a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for personalized instruction, hands-on learning, and close mentorship from experienced faculty. This supportive, student-centered environment fosters critical thinking, effective communication, and real-world problem-solving skills.

McMurry’s close-knit campus community encourages involvement, leadership development, and service, helping students grow both academically and personally. Graduates leave prepared to lead with integrity, adapt in a changing workforce, and make a lasting impact in their communities.
Accreditations Student Achievements

Our Mission

Shaped by Christian principles, McMurry University challenges students to examine our complex world from multiple perspectives in preparation for lives of leadership, service, and professional success.

Core Values

CHRISTIAN FAITH as the Foundation of Life

PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS as the Catalyst for Life

LEARNING as the Journey of Life

EXCELLENCE as the Goal of Life

SERVICE as the Measure of Life

Excellence in Leadership

President Dr. Lynne Murray

McMurry University 11th
McMurry Leadership

Grounded in History, Soaring to the Future

The Second Century 2023 – 2030 Strategic Plan

Adopted in September 2023, The Second Century is McMurry University’s strategic plan guiding institutional growth, innovation, and long-term success.

The plan defines Vision 2030 and is built on five core pillars that shape priorities across academics, student experience, and community engagement. Together, they provide a clear framework for decision-making and ensure alignment across the university through 2030.

 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023
  • I. Enhance institutional self-esteem and community perception by increasing the frequency and the quality of internal and external messaging.
  • II. Advance Academic Program Development that is mindful of vital skills (specifically oral communication, critical thinking, ethical judgment, working effectively in teams, working independently, self-motivation, written communication, servant leadership, cultural competence and real-world application of skills and knowledge) needed for the 21st century workplace leading to the professional success of McMurry graduates.
  • III. Recruit, Retain, and Graduate a diverse student body by developing engaged learners with the propensity to connect proactively in their communities.
  • IV. Recruit, Retain, and Advance/Develop a diverse and engaged McMurry faculty, staff, and administration by investing in employee talent attraction, alignment, and a culture of belonging.
  • V. Enhance McMurry’s financial stability and long-term viability through investment, development and acquisition of traditional and alternative revenue streams, and intentional acquisition and management of its physical and technical resources.

Vision 2030

McMurry University transforms lives through Christian faith, academic excellence, and service, empowering students to lead lives of purpose and impact.

By 2030, McMurry will:

  • Uphold Christian values that foster belonging, dignity, and student success
  • Expand academic programs to support strategic enrollment growth
  • Be recognized for excellence in academics, athletics, and student outcomes
  • Strengthen its position as a leading small private university in Texas, advancing social mobility and educational access

Through high-impact learning and a commitment to excellence, McMurry students, faculty, and graduates will embody leadership, resilience, and lifelong learning—driving meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

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Interested in joining the McMurry University team? View current positions for students, faculty, staff, and adjuncts.
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