Gov. Steve Beshear announced governing board appointments to multiple state universities in early August, including Hopkinsville Mayor J. Daniel Kemp to Murray State’s Board of Regents.

Kemp has served as mayor of Hopkinsville, Ky. for six years after practicing law for 32 years.

He has a past and familiarity with Murray State after receiving his bachelor’s in both English and history from the University before pursuing law from the University of Kentucky.

Kemp and his wife, Henrietta, have collectively donated $2,500 to Beshear over the years. Kemp has personally given $2,250, while Henrietta has given $250 in support of the Governor.

He is filling the position of previous Regent Marilyn Buchanon, who’s record-setting 19 years as a Regent on the board ended June 30.

Student Regent Michael Dobbs said the addition of Kemp marks an important transition for the University and the Board of Regents is excited for the upcoming year.

The board will see a few changes to its regents this year. Dobbs will replace previous Student Regent Jeremiah Johnson. The role of Student Regent is filled by the Student Government Association president.

Additionally, Harry Lee Waterfield II is the new chairman of the Board of Regents. He is replacing previous chairman Constantine Curris.

While the board has yet to officially meet for the new academic year with the recent changes, the members will reconvene Aug. 27 for the all-day annual retreat and work session.

Kemp will formally meet as a new Regent during that meeting and as of late will continue to serve as mayor of Hopkinsville.

His term on the Board of Regents will end June 30, 2020.

Story by Mary Bradley, Assistant News Editor