McMurry University will formally welcome Dr. Lynne Murray as the institution’s 11th president during a week of inauguration events beginning Monday, September 22, and continuing through Saturday, September 27. The week’s centerpiece, the Inauguration Ceremony and Investiture, will take place on Friday, September 26, at 11 a.m. in Radford Auditorium, bringing together delegates from universities across Texas, alumni, community leaders, and friends of McMurry. A reception will follow in the Garrison United Methodist Campus Center.
The McMurry University Board of Trustees unanimously elected Dr. Murray in September 2024 following a nationwide search and officially 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.
“It is an extraordinary honor to serve McMurry University,” said Dr. Murray. “This community is truly Rising With Purpose, transforming lives and strengthening communities with passion and promise. McMurry has always been more than a university; it is a partner to Abilene and West Texas. My vision is to deepen those partnerships while elevating McMurry’s role as one of the top regional universities on the western plains. Together, we will invest in academic excellence, expand access and affordability, and advance a culture of service. Our future is one where McMurry is recognized not only for the success of our graduates, but for the lasting impact we make in the world.”
In addition to the inauguration ceremony, the public is invited to join several inaugural celebrations throughout the week. On Monday, September 22, McMurry will open “Rising with Purpose,” an art exhibit in Amy Graves Ryan Fine Arts Gallery featuring works from the McMurry community, with a reception on Tuesday, September 23, at 4 p.m. The exhibit will remain on display throughout inauguration week and continue through Homecoming weekend, October 9-12. On Tuesday, September 23, the University will also host a special chapel service at 11 a.m. in the Mabee Room in honor of President Murray, featuring Rev. Stacey Piyakhun of the Horizon Texas Conference. The celebrations will conclude on Saturday, September 27, at McMurry’s home football game against Howard Payne University, where Dr. Murray will be recognized with a pregame ceremony and coin toss at 1:30 p.m. in Wilford Moore Stadium.
For more information about inauguration events, visit mcm.edu/inauguration
Contact
Katelyn Scott, Associate Vice President of Strategic Communications and Marketing
scott.katelyn@mcm.edu
325-793-3800, ext.1013