Alumni Association celebrates 10 Golden Horseshoe Award winners

MURRAY, Ky. – Murray State University Alumni Association (MSUAA) honored 10 alumni on Sept. 20 at the Golden Horseshoe Luncheon.

The Golden Horseshoe Award honors alumni whose dedication to Murray State has contributed to the continued growth and excellence of Murray State through University-held positions and/or exceptional volunteer support. It is the highest honor the Murray State University Alumni Association bestows upon alumni for their service to the institution and, most importantly, the students.

Those honored include: Eric Crigler (‘90), former chair of the Murray State University Board of Regents; Melissa Easley (‘64, ‘90), longtime supporter and volunteer; Susan Guess (‘87), former chair of the Murray State University Board of Regents; Dan Kemp (‘67), former chair of the Murray State University Board of Regents; Leon Owens (‘14), current chair of the Murray State University Board of Regents; Gayle Rogers (‘10, ‘15), former president of the MSUAA Board of Governors; David Taylor (‘82), longtime supporter of Murray State University Athletics; Dr. Don Tharpe (‘74, ‘75), former chair of the Murray State University Board of Regents; Harold G. Doran Jr. (‘75), longtime member and former vice-chair of the Murray State Foundation Board and Jerry Rhoads (‘63), former chair of the Murray State University Board of Regents.

“The Golden Horseshoe award is the highest honor we can bestow upon alumni for their service and commitment to the University,” said Murray State University President Dr. Bob Jackson. “We recognized an outstanding group and are deeply grateful for all that they have done and continue to do to advance Murray State University.”

The Golden Horseshoe Award was first established by Alumni Relations Director Donna Herndon in 1987. Since that time, the honor has played a vital role in the latter half of Murray State’s now 102-year history. 

“The Golden Horseshoe recipients we recognized this year epitomize Racer Pride,” said Murray State Director of Alumni Relations Carrie McGinnis. “For years, in some cases decades, these alumni have dedicated their time and talents to the growth and success of their beloved alma mater. Through their service above self, they have provided countless opportunities for Racers past and present, and left an indelible impact that will carry on for generations of students to come.”

These 10 names will join just 77 others over the last few decades on the Golden Horseshoe plaque located on the plaza level of the Sid Easley Alumni Center and in the Hall of Benefactors and Distinguished Alumni in Murray State’s Heritage Hall.

See past recipients here: bit.ly/4gz4pp9