Rising with Purpose
Transforming Lives and Communities
McMurry University proudly selected Dr. Lynne Murray as its 11th president. Dr. Murray was unanimously chosen after a nationwide search and began her tenure on January 10, 2025. She brings a distinguished record of leadership, fundraising, and strategic vision, having elevated the national profiles of several institutions. Dr. Murray holds degrees from St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Johns Hopkins University, and Gallaudet University. Inspired by her interactions with McMurry students, she looks forward to building on the university’s recent achievements and leading it into a new era of growth and success.
Friday, September 26, 2025 | 11 a.m. in Radford Auditorium
A Week of Celebration
Join us as we celebrate the inauguration of Dr. Lynne Murray, McMurry University’s 11th president. Various events will bring together students, faculty, staff, alums, and friends throughout the week to recognize this historic moment. While many events are open to the campus and community, some are by invitation only. Please refer to each listing for details on access and participation.
- Art Show Opens | Amy Graves Ryan Fine Arts Gallery (open to the Public) | 7:30 a.m.
- Opening Ceremony | Mabee Room (Faculty & Staff only) | 7:30 a.m.
- Chapel | Mabee Room (open to the Public) | 11:00 a.m.
- Art Show Reception | Amy Graves Ryan Fine Arts Gallery (open to the Public) | 4:00 p.m.
- Student Picnic | Campus Center (students) | 5:00 p.m.
The following events are for the Board of Trustees and Campus members only.
- Board of Trustees Meeting | President’s Board Room | 8:00 a.m.
- Luncheon and Faculty Presentations | Mabee Room | 11:30 a.m.
- Resume Meeting | President’s Board Room | 1:00 p.m.
- Reception | Abilene Country Club | 5:30 p.m.
- Board of Trustees Meeting | President’s Board Room (Board of Trustees and Campus members only) | 8:00 a.m.
- Inauguration Dinner | Silverado (by invitation only) | 6:00 p.m.
- Prayer Breakfast | Mabee Room (invitation only) | 8:30 a.m.
- Inauguration Ceremony and Investiture | Radford Auditorium (open to the public) | 11:00 a.m.
- Reception | Campus Center (open to the public) | 12:30 p.m.
- Tailgate | The Backyard (open to the public) | 11:00 a.m.
- Pregame Recognition of Dr. Murray and Coin Flip | Wilford Moore Stadium (purchase game ticket) | 1:30 p.m.
- Football game vs. Howard Payne University | Wilford Moore Stadium (purchase game ticket) | 2:00 p.m.
Hotel Accommodations
Planning Your Stay for the Inauguration Just Got Easier
The Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau provides a comprehensive directory of local hotel accommodations to support your visit. Explore the available options and book the stay that best meets your needs by visiting the link.
Celebratory Notes
Share your message of congratulations for President Murray. Submissions may be posted to the Inauguration website and included in a scrapbook for the president after the event.