Dr. Brian Parr named dean of the Hutson School of Agriculture

MURRAY, Ky. – Murray State University named Dr. Brian Parr dean of the Hutson School of Agriculture at the University’s Board of Regents meeting on June 2, 2023. Parr had served as the interim dean of the school since January 1, 2023.

In his role, Parr will continue to oversee academic programs within the Hutson School of Agriculture that serve over 1,200 students while coordinating research and education efforts on Murray State’s five school farms. Academically, the school offers programs ranging from the Racer Academy dual-credit program for high school students to various bachelor and master degree programs, including online programs for students throughout the world to earn a degree from Murray State.

Parr received his Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University and his master’s and bachelor’s degrees from the University of Tennessee. He joined the Murray State faculty in 2015 as Professor and Head of the Department of Agricultural Science. He served as Assistant Dean from July 1, 2017 to December 31, 2022. 

In 2022, Parr was recognized by the Oklahoma State University Department of Agricultural Education, Communications and Leadership as a recipient of its Distinguished Alumnus Award. 

Parr’s research has been featured in multiple scholarly journals, publications and presentations. He has been a member of the Kentucky Agriculture Council since 2015 and holds memberships in multiple professional organizations, including the American Association of Agricultural Educators and the Kentucky Association for Career and Technical Education. 

“It is my pleasure to be allowed to continue to serve the students in the Hutson School of Agriculture! Our school has a rich history in student-centered education with a focus on our regional agricultural community as well as the international agricultural industry,” said Parr. “I am committed to honoring our rich heritage while moving forward with the advancements of our industry for the benefit of our students and faculty. I am excited about the direction that the Hutson School of Agriculture is headed!”

Parr is married to Murray State faculty member Dr. Kemaly Parr and they have five children, Blaine, Kelly, Kendrick, Wade and Alena.