Murray State President Ron Patterson announced the hiring of a new chief financial officer following an extensive search for several executive staff positions. 

Laura Foltz has replaced Jackie Dudley as the vice president for finance and administrative services, but Patterson said there has been setbacks in the hiring process for remaining positions.

“I’m excited that we are hiring our new CFO, also we are looking for a new provost or chief academic officer,” Patterson said. “We thought we hired someone last fall, but in December the person backed out on me last minute, so we are reopening our search for a new chief academic officer for the University.”

Patterson said this renewed search will be nationwide, having started on Jan. 9. On Feb. 9, the University will conduct a first-round review of potential candidates, followed by Zoom interviews the following week. The remaining candidates will be invited onto campus on March 2–4, for students to give their thoughts and suggestions. Murray State will then move forward with the hiring process on March 9 or 10.

The position for vice president of public affairs, formerly held by Jordan Smith, is currently being revised alongside its job description, with Patterson saying that it will be posted in around five to seven days. Other revisions include an expansion of staff, with a greater emphasis on lobbyists to promote legislation in the University’s favor.

A campus fee advisory group comprised of members of SGA is to be assembled so as to gauge the working structure of the University.

Patterson also announced that Murray State was granted to make a case to gain the opportunity to offer a doctorate in veterinary and medical sciences. The presentation is to take place on Jan. 26, and a resolution will be made shortly after.