McMurry University will host its Fall Commencement ceremony on December 13, 2025, at 10 a.m. in Radford Auditorium, celebrating the achievements of more than 50 graduates. Among this year’s class are one master’s degree recipient and five students completing the University Honors Program, representing academic excellence across disciplines.
This year’s ceremony marks a special milestone as President Dr. Lynne Murray presides over Fall Commencement for the first time since assuming the presidency.
Dr. Murray, who became McMurry University’s 11th president on January 10, 2025, brings a distinguished record of leadership in higher education. In her first year at McMurry, Dr. Murray has focused on strategic planning, campus revitalization, resource development, and advancing the University’s mission of preparing graduates for lives of leadership, service, and professional success. In her first year, she has helped advance initiatives that enhance innovation and bolster student success, access, retention, and achievement.
“As we celebrate this graduating class, we also celebrate possibility,” Murray said. “Our students are stepping into the world prepared not only with knowledge, but with character, and I cannot wait to see the impact they will make.”
The commencement address will be delivered by Dr. Marcia Straughn, dean and professor of McMurry University’s Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing. Dr. Straughn holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in both music and nursing, as well as a Ph.D. in Nursing Science from Texas Woman’s University. With more than 25 years of experience in nursing practice, higher education, and academic leadership, she provides strategic and administrative guidance for all McMurry nursing programs. Her scholarly contributions include national and international presentations on nursing education, affective learning, and clinical instruction, as well as multiple grant awards supporting innovative nursing education initiatives.
McMurry University proudly celebrates the accomplishments of its graduates and looks forward to honoring them as they embark on the next chapter of their personal and professional journeys.
Contact
Leah Bennett, Director of Integrated Communications
bennett.leah@mcm.edu
325-793-3800, ext.1013