Story by Mary Bradley, Editor-in-Chief
After five years in the office of Associate Provost and Provost, Jay Morgan will step down from his position effective June 30.
In an email sent to the University, Morgan wrote that he will be returning to a tenured professor position in the Huston School of Agriculture for the 2015-16 academic year. However, Morgan said he will be “on loan” to the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, or CPE, as the new vice president of Academic Affairs effective July 1.
Morgan noted that he will not be formally leaving the University, but will be working with the state government in Frankfort, Ky., until he returns to the University. His appointment will be through an agreement between CPE and Murray State.
“I consider this CPE appointment as a good professional opportunity for me and also good for Murray State, but acknowledge that these statewide governmental appointments can be fast and furious and at some time I will return to the University to just have fun teaching and interacting with students,” Morgan wrote.
He said President Bob Davies will be working through details during this transition and will appoint an interim Provost.
Morgan was selected as Provost in 2013 from a pool of 84 candidates and was one of four finalists. A 17-member search committee chaired by Jack Rose included representatives from each academic college and school, constituent groups, the Dean’s Council, professional staff, Student Affairs and athletics selected Morgan.
Amidst Morgan stepping down as Provost, other areas of the University will see changes as well.
Ted Brown, dean of the College of Humanities and Fine Arts, will be stepping down from his position after 10 years effective August 8. Pending approval by the Board of Regents, Staci Stone will be the interim dean during 2015-16.
As the University moves forward, a national search for a new dean to begin July 1, 2016.
Additionally, Adam Murray, dean of University Libraries, has accepted a position at another university and will be replaced by acting dean Ashley Ireland.
Glad to see the State recognize a man of great character and charisma. If congratulations are in order here (and if I read it right, they are,) well done Jay!