Dr. Aaron Thompson to be awarded an honorary doctorate at fall 2024 commencement

MURRAY, Ky. – Dr. Aaron Thompson, president of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE), will be awarded an honorary doctorate from Murray State University as part of the fall 2024 commencement ceremony on Dec. 14. 

Thompson is a passionate advocate for higher education. As a first-generation college student from rural Clay County, Kentucky, he experienced first-hand the transformative power of a college credential. As President of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, he works to ensure all Kentuckians have an equal opportunity to improve their lives through postsecondary education.

Before taking the helm of CPE, Thompson served as interim president of Kentucky State University; CPE executive vice president and provost; and faculty member and administrator at Eastern Kentucky University. He has extensive leadership experience within the private and non-profit sectors and is a highly sought-after national speaker. Thompson has authored or co-authored numerous books and peer-reviewed publications on diversity, cultural competence, first-year experience programs, retention, and student success, among other topics.

Thompson received his doctoral degree in sociology from the University of Kentucky, with an emphasis on organizational leadership. He earned a master’s degree in industrial sociology from the University of Kentucky, and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Eastern Kentucky University. He also holds honorary doctorates from Brescia University, Eastern Kentucky University and Union College.

“I am thrilled to receive this honor from Murray State University, an institution that has distinguished itself for its commitment to academic excellence and student success,” Thompson said. “I’m proud to call myself an honorary Racer.”

“We are proud to recognize Dr. Aaron Thompson with an honorary doctorate at our upcoming commencement ceremony. Dr. Thompson is a Kentuckian who has a tireless commitment and enthusiasm toward advocating for the importance and value of higher education in the Commonwealth,” Murray State President Dr. Bob Jackson said. “We greatly appreciate his support of Murray State University and look forward to celebrating this honor with him.”

The fall 2024 commencement ceremonies will take place on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 10 a.m. at the CFSB Center. Please visit murraystate.edu/commencement for additional information.