Publications rank University among best

Austin Ramsey
News Editor

The University was recently recognized by two third-party rating publications for providing outstanding service to its faculty.
The first publication, The Chronicle of Higher Education, released a report of data collected from surveys at 310 universities nationwide, with 44,000 employees taking part.
Murray State was pointed out under the heading “Great Colleges to Work For” for the second time since the officials began participating in the survey last year.
The report gave the University specific recognition for its professional and career development programs as well as confidence in its senior leadership.
Murray State and Eastern Kentucky universities were the only two public state universities that received recognition.
According to information posted on The Chronicle’s website, the participating schools were assessed using institutional audits on demographics and policies as well as faculty-wide surveys.
Catherine Sivills, assistant vice president for communications and publications, coordinated the University’s faculty survey.
The report included demographical faculty and administration information.
According to the report, the University currently employs 417 full-time faculty and 161 adjunct or part-time faculty. There are 339 full-time professional staff and administrators whose annual salaries average $51,262.
Jim Carter, vice president of institutional advancement, said the recognition in The Chronicle could have long-lasting impacts on the relationships between students and their faculty.
“Think about how much better a learning environment where those who are around you both in teaching and in staff like their jobs – feel good about their purpose and what they’re here for,” he said. “It puts Murray in a very unique situation.”
He said faculty members on campus often develop a sense of unity with their peers, giving students the opportunity to learn in a more positive environment.
Earlier this month Murray State also received recognition in a Forbes online annual special “America’s Top Colleges” list.
Murray State was named on the “Top Colleges” listing and as one of “America’s Top 100 Best College Buys.”
Only the University of Kentucky ranked higher than Murray State on the list of state public schools.
Centre College received the highest ranking of all Kentucky institutions of higher education, appearing in the top 50 schools in the nation.
Under the “Best Buy” ranking, the University represented the state alone.
According to Forbes.com, the “Best Buy” ranking is determined by factoring in the price of the universities against their performance in educating and graduating students.
Carter said the University’s position on the “Best Buy” list is important considering the federal financial crisis.
“There’s something unique about the Racer spirit in this financial crisis,” he said. “We choose to get over it.”
He also attributed the recognition to University alumni whose financial contributions have helped the Murray State University Foundation award scholarships.
University President Randy Dunn said the effects of the recognition will reach beyond the faculty and students mentioned.
Said Dunn: “Any time you have these respected third-party groups who are looking at the University along with all of the other universities in the country and we’re chosen as among the best, I think it’s a very powerful message for future students, their parents, leadership within the Commonwealth and the region.”
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