After 47 years of serving Murray State, Jeanie Morgan will pass the torch along to the next advisor for Student Government Association (SGA).
“I have had absolutely the most wonderful experience anyone could ask for,” she said. “I have worked with the most outstanding students and colleagues.”
Morgan has been the SGA advisor since 1984 but worked in the Housing Office beginning in 1976.
While Morgan has been employed by the University for almost 50 years, she said she doesn’t consider what she does a job.
“The best aspects of my career (are) working with students,” she said. “(It is a joy) seeing them come in as freshmen, a little apprehensive, then leave as a graduate, ready for the real world.”
Ellie McGowan, current SGA president, said working with Morgan on SGA for the past four years has strengthened their relationship not only as co-workers but also as friends.
“I (feel) like I have known Jeanie for many years of my life, despite only personally interacting with her for the four years I studied here,” she said.
McGowan said Morgan’s most influential role is being a mentor.
“She helps, assists and guides students throughout their roles in student government,” she said. “Through this action, she promotes the growth and success of student leaders across campus.”
Morgan said the most rewarding part of her time at the University has been watching students become a part of Murray State.
“I like to think the most impact I have made is my longevity in the office,” she said. “Students return and stop by to say hello, let me know how they are doing and sometimes bring their children to start their education at Murray State.”
McGowan said Morgan impacted her through dependability during difficult situations.
“When times got difficult (as SGA president), it was Jeanie Morgan who saved me and encouraged me to keep moving forward,” she said. “Jeanie is someone that has taught me so much about myself and about what it means to be a true, lifelong leader.”
Because of this leadership, McGowan said students across campus have also benefited from Morgan’s hospitality.
“Jeanie genuinely cares about each and every student that walks the halls of this campus and has spent all of her years here dedicated to that mission,” she said. “(Jeanie) has never been there to push an agenda or accomplish what she thought was best but has always been there to support what the students want.”
Morgan said her desire for the University as she departs is to remain an ambassador for Murray State.
“(I hope that) people look at me and see how much I love Murray State,” she said.
Morgan highlighted Homecoming as her favorite time of year and said it even topped Christmas. Because of this, the SGA Senate passed a resolution stating, “Homecoming is Better Than Christmas” in honor of her.
Morgan, along with the majority of people who encounter her, say she is a “people-person.” Because of this, Morgan said she plans to volunteer at Purpose Church to see what other methods of working with people interest her.
During her retirement, she plans to travel, enjoy time with her friends and continue to support Murray State events.
McGowan said although she is saddened by Morgan’s retirement, she believes it is well-deserved.
“She has worn so many hats throughout her employment here at Murray State, and she is more than deserving of all the rest, travel and happiness retirement will bring her,” she said. “Even though Jeanie won’t be on campus this fall, I know her legacy and impact will remain vividly on our campus for many years to come.”
McGowan said she is unsure who will be taking Morgan’s place, but the hiring process will follow University procedures.
