Alumni Awards
Each year, the McMurry University Alumni Association celebrates alumni achievement at the Night of Distinction event, where we recognize alumni who are leading lives of distinction and who embody McMurry’s core values of Learning, Excellence, and Service.
Nominations for the 2024 Alumni Achievement Awards have closed.
The deadline for the 2025 Alumni Achievement Awards nomination submissions is December 31, 2024.
Distinguished Alumni Award
The Distinguished Alumni Award, established in 1971, is the highest honor bestowed upon alumni by the Alumni Association on behalf of McMurry University. This award honors alumni who have made a significant contribution to their profession, society, and McMurry University. The nominee must be an alumna/alumnus of McMurry but not necessarily a graduate. Current members of the faculty or staff and active Board of Trustees and Alumni Association Board of Directors are not eligible for this award.
NominateShannon Sedgwick Davis ’96
Shannon Sedgwick Davis is the CEO of Bridgeway Foundation and the author of “To Stop a Warlord.” The Bridgeway Foundation is a philanthropic organization dedicated to ending and preventing mass atrocities around the world. Established in 2000 as the charitable giving arm of Bridgeway Capital Management, the organization serves as a catalyst for peace and reconciliation in international communities suffering from oppression, genocide, and other human rights violations. An attorney, activist,
and passionate advocate for social justice, Ms. Sedgwick Davis has guided the Bridgeway Foundation in pioneering solutions to seemingly intractable issues around the world. The organization has supported the work of groups like Aegis Trust, Resolve Uganda, Human Rights Watch, Invisible Children, and dozens of community-based
organizations. Ms. Sedgwick Davis and the Bridgeway Foundation have been credited for their pivotal role in mobilizing awareness, civilian protection, and recovery efforts to counter the violence of the Lord’s Resistance Army and its leader, Joseph Kony, the first-ever indictee of the International Criminal Court. The work of
Ms. Sedgwick Davis and the Foundation’s work has been featured on NBC’s “TODAY,” “TEDxSanAntonio,” “PBS NewsHour,” and in Forbes.
Before joining Bridgeway Foundation in 2007, Ms. Sedgwick Davis served as Vice President of Geneva Global. This leading philanthropic consulting firm advises individuals, foundations, non-profit organizations, and corporations on international development, global health, and poverty solutions. Previously, Ms. Sedgwick Davis was the Director of Public Affairs at the International Justice Mission (IJM), a human rights agency that focuses on ending slavery, forced prostitution, and illegal land seizures in the developing world. Her work in helping rescue children from sex trafficking in the Svay Pak village of Cambodia was featured in the 2005 Emmy award-winning
piece, “Children for Sale,” on Dateline.
Ms. Sedgwick Davis is an honors graduate of McMurry University and Baylor Law School, from which she received the institution’s Young Lawyer of the Year Award in 2011. Her other recognitions include the Nomi Network’s 2014 Abolitionist Award; a Global Human Rights Hero award from Saving Innocence; the Navy SEAL “Fire in the Gut”
Award; and the 2022 International Citizen of the Year Award from the World Affairs Council of San Antonio. Ms. Sedgwick Davis serves on the advisory council of The Elders and is a board member of several organizations including Humanity United, charity: water, Verdant Frontiers, and, formerly, TOMS.
| Doug Wofford ’77 | 2023 |
| Terry Wheeler ’85 | 2022 |
| Judge Jorge A. Solis ’73* | 2021 |
| Paul E. Stubbs ’61 | 2020 |
| Ralph McCleskey ’65 | 2019 |
| Arthur Pertile, III ’83 | 2018 |
| Weldon S. Crowley ’57 | 2016 |
| Roger W. Ward ’67 | 2015 |
| Richard Max Wynn ’80 | 2014 |
| Don E. Cain ’76 | 2013 |
| K.O. Long ’70 | 2012 |
| Jerry D. Campbell ’68 | 2011 |
| Chuck M. Fallon ’85 | 2010 |
| Stephen K. Mittelstet ’67 | 2009 |
| Pug Parris ’73 | 2009 |
| Joe Bill Fox ’56 | 2008 |
| Mable F. Phillips ’34* | 2008 |
| Gene M. Tucker ’57 | 2008 |
| Holland B. Evans ’66 | 2007 |
| Jack Darnell ’55 | 2006 |
| Ralph J. Turner ’74 | 2006 |
| Bynum W. Miers ’59 | 2005 |
| Wendell M. Tooley ’49* | 2005 |
| Bervin O. Caswell ’38* | 2004 |
| Dan E. Solomon ’58 | 2004 |
| Mary Esther Bynum ’52 | 2003 |
| Richard Cyril Stone ’46* | 2003 |
| Phil T. Brewer ’76* | 2002 |
| C. Girvin Harkins ’60 | 2001 |
| Richard N. Countiss ’58 | 2000 |
| Sam B. Smith ’66 | 2000 |
*Indicates recipient is deceased.
| Shirley Ann Wagley ’57* | 1999 |
| Grant G. Teaff ’56 | 1998 |
| Kenneth Day ’43* | 1997 |
| Howard L. Green ’43* | 1996 |
| Hershel E. Kimbrell ’50 | 1995 |
| Alex Bickley ex ’38* | 1994 |
| Ed N. Wishcamper ’38* | 1994 |
| Holland Hope ’40* | 1993 |
| Jere M. Lawrence ’54* | 1993 |
| William A. Hunt ’29* | 1992 |
| Sarah Ragle Weddington ’64 | 1992 |
| Don Campbell ’59* | 1991 |
| Paul D. Lack ’66 | 1991 |
| William A. Ward ’48* | 1990 |
| Faye Bryant White ’48* | 1990 |
*Indicates recipient is deceased.
| Jerald D. Lee ’61* | 1989 |
| Marshall D. Turnbull ’46* | 1989 |
| Verdain Barnes ’58 | 1988 |
| Walter Morris Baker ’63 | 1987 |
| Eldon B. Mahon ’42* | 1987 |
| Canon Bradley ’62 | 1986 |
| Noel Bryant ’36* | 1986 |
| Kenneth J. Wyatt ’54 | 1986 |
| Alsie H. Carleton ’33* | 1985 |
| Rigdon Edwards ’31* | 1985 |
| William S. Hotchkiss ’35* | 1985 |
| Raymon L. Bynum ’50* | 1984 |
| Willmon L. White ’53 | 1984 |
| James E. Kirby ’54 | 1983 |
| Neil Daniel ’39* | 1982 |
| Dan W. Dodson ’31* | 1982 |
| Bill M. Ellington ’43* | 1980 |
| Roy B. Shilling ’51 | 1980 |
*Indicates recipient is deceased.
| Jewell Posey | 1977 |
| Wilma Jane Huddleston ’58 | 1977 |
| William A. Cantrell ’40* | 1976 |
| Ralph L. Mills ’49 | 1976 |
| Thomas H. Greer ’38* | 1975 |
| Ashley D. Jameson ’39* | 1975 |
| Joe E. Boyd ex ’32 | 1974 |
| Josephine Crutchfield ’37* | 1974 |
| Vernon G. Spence ’46* | 1974 |
| C.E. Sonny Bentley ex ’42 | 1971 |
Young Alumni Achievement Award
The Young Alumni Achievement Award (formerly the Spirit of McMurry) was established in 2011 by the Alumni Association. This award honors alumni who have graduated in the last 20 years and have excelled in their profession, served their community, and served McMurry University. The nominee must be an alumna/alumnus of McMurry but not necessarily a graduate. Current members of the faculty or staff and active Board of Trustees and Alumni Association Board of Directors are not eligible for this award.
NominateKarl Scott ’07
Karl Scott is an accomplished football coach known for his expertise in developing defensive backs and coordinating defensive passing games. A native of Houston, Texas, Scott honed his skills on the football field at McMurry, where he earned a degree in exercise and sports studies in 2007. From McMurry’s fields and classrooms to the highest echelons of the NFL, Scott has made a positive impact on every team he’s been associated with.
Following his collegiate career, Scott began coaching at Delta State in 2007, where he served as a graduate assistant. In his inaugural season, he led the Statesman to a remarkable 10-2 record, clinching the Gulf South Conference championship and securing a coveted spot in the NCAA Division II playoffs.
Scott transitioned to Tusculum College in 2008, where he took on the roles of recruiting coordinator, defensive backs coach, and linebackers’ coach and mentored standout players who garnered all-conference honors.
In 2012, Scott joined Southeastern Louisiana University, where he spent three transformative years as the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, steering the Lions to consecutive Southland Conference Championships and two NCAA Football Championship Division playoff appearances. Under his leadership, Southeastern’s defense earned All-America honors and solidified Southeastern Louisiana’s status as a defensive powerhouse.
Scott continued to climb the coaching ranks into Division I football, joining Skip Holtz’s coaching staff as the safeties coach at Louisiana Tech University in 2015. Louisiana Tech’s defense thrived under Scott’s guidance, culminating in a 9-4 record and a victory in the New Orleans Bowl.
In 2018, Scott served as the cornerbacks coach for the University of Alabama.. His tenure coincided with the Crimson Tide’s dominance, resulting in a National Championship victory in 2020 and establishing several defensive players as top NFL prospects.
In 2021, Scott made his mark in the NFL, joining the Minnesota Vikings as the defensive backs coach. In his inaugural season in the league, Scott revitalized the Vikings’ defense, with veteran players like Harrison Smith, while nurturing young talents like Devon Witherspoon.
Scott’s journey reached new heights when he assumed a key role in the Seattle Seahawks as the defensive passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach after starting as the team’s defensive pass game coordinator/defensive backs coach in 2022. His impact was immediate, with rookie cornerbacks like Coby Bryant and Riq Woolen making significant strides under his mentorship. Woolen’s exceptional performance, including tying for first in the NFL with six interceptions, underscored Scott’s ability to develop top-tier talent at the professional level.
Scott has been a visionary leader, dedicated mentor, and relentless competitor throughout his career. His commitment to excellence impacts every team and player he works with, earning him respect and recognition. As he continues to inspire and shape the future of football, Scott’s coaching legacy will endure for generations.
Scott and his wife, Taron, have two daughters, Kina Bailey and Kari Mae.
| Chad Harris, DVM ’03 | 2023 |
| Matthew Armbruster ’07 | 2022 |
| Hunter Sims ’07 | 2021 |
| Shawn Martin ’99 | 2020 |
| GaBrielle Mallet ’05 | 2019 |
| Dr. Ryan Higley ’03 | 2018 |
| Chris N. Montoya ’00 | 2016 |
| Clayton P. Bulls ’95 | 2015 |
| Steven C. Bristow ’96 | 2014 |
| Colby Stone ’97 | 2013 |
| Lon Outland ’93 | 2012 |
| JoLisa K. Hoover ’92 | 2012 |
| Kay L. Younggren ’02 | 2011 |
| Shannon Sedgwick Davis ’96 | 2011 |
Please note that before 2018 this award was known as the Spirit of McMurry Award.
Honorary Alumni Award
Established in 2023, the Honorary Alumni Award is presented by the McMurry University Alumni Association to individuals (non alumnus) who have displayed exceptional interest, dedication, and/or service to the University, and have made a positive impact on the McMurry community. It is presented to a person who is not an alumna or alumnus of McMurry University, but who has earned this recognition and honor through loyalty, service, and support of the University.
Dr. Sandra S. Harper
The Alumni Board of Directors recognized Dr. Sandra S. Harper as the first and 2023 Honorary Alumna. Dr. Harper has been a tireless champion for McMurry during her many years dating back to 1985 as a professor, dean, and as McMurry’s first female President. She famously said that although she is not a graduate of McMurry, she got back here as fast as possible. She has doubtless, done more for the University than many if not most graduates.
As an educator, she has impacted students in the classroom, so much so that she still maintains relationships with many of them. As the Dean of Arts and Sciences, she expanded her influence to even more students and faculty. And, now as McMurry’s 12th and first female President, she has lead the University to its largest enrollment in 12 years, the largest fundraising year in school history, and the largest single project in school history and the list goes on and on. She is the University’s greatest ambassador and vision caster to Abilene and the regional community. Her deep involvement in community and statewide academic affairs puts McMurry in the spotlight. And through her personal style and talent, she demonstrates McMurry’s commitment to excellence. Dr. Harper embodies the best of McMurry.
Outstanding Alumni Awards
These awards, established by McMurry in 2017, recognize alumni who have had a significant impact in their professional field and their community, through achievement and/or service. The fields represented currently are Business, Education, Fine Arts, Math & the Sciences, Religious & Spiritual Life. The nominee must be an alumna/alumnus of McMurry but not necessarily a graduate. Current members of the faculty or staff and active Board of Trustees, Alumni Association Board of Directors, and advisory board members are not eligible for this award.
Nominate Bramer Owens ’03 Business |  Dr. Hope Pamplin ’01 Education |  George Levesque ’96 Fine Arts |
 Marcus Ramage ’65 Math and Sciences |  Heather Gates ’04 Religious & Spiritual Life |
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| Paul Williams ’85 | Business |
| Carly Kahl ’98 | Education |
| John Landin ’09 | Fine Arts |
| David Carver ’74 | Math & the Sciences |
| Tim Kennedy ’99 | Religious & Spiritual Life |
| Leslie Chalmers ’99 | Business |
| Rory Peacock ’01 | Education |
| Tom Turner ’01 | Fine Arts |
| Aletha Lizette Williams ’04 | Math & the Sciences |
| Rev. Zachary Harrison Kerzee ’11 | Religious & Spiritual Life |
| Rochelle McSherry Johnson ’86 | Business |
| Don Taylor ’56 | Education |
| Sarah Sheppard Shaver ’02 | Fine Arts |
| Tyler McCracken ’08 | Math & the Sciences |
| Sara von Ende Orr ’93 | Religious & Spiritual Life |
| Jason Rodriguez ’00 | Business |
| Vernon D. Asbill ’69 | Education |
| Cheyenne Cruz ’09 | Fine Arts |
| A. Ray Hamilton ’66 | Math & the Sciences |
| Bishop James G. Nunn ’79 | Religious & Spiritual Life |
| Jimmy Stallings ’50 | Business |
| Joey Light ’82 | Education |
| Brady Nichols Sloane ’04 | Fine Arts |
| Jennifer Codding-Bui ’06 | Math & the Sciences |
| Rev. Karen Greenwaldt ’73 | Religious & Spiritual Life |