Story by Bri Hunter
Contributing writer
briannahunter5@gmail.com
Randal Keller has been named the newest endowed professor at the University’s Jesse D. Jones College of Science, Engineering and Technology.
This is made possible by a gift that was given generously by Jones. The professorship is a four-year assignment that honors tenured faculty for accomplishments that have been made both in and out of the classroom. In order to achieve an endowed professorship, a professor must provide augmented learning opportunities for students, scholarly activity and visibility for the college.
Keller has been a University faculty member since 1996. He has acquired his Ph.D. and Master of Science degrees in toxicology and his Bachelor of Arts in chemistry. He finished his post-doctrinal training at the National Center for Toxicological Research and started his academic career in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Keller holds board certifications in toxicology, industrial hygiene and safety.
Keller has authored various publications and presentations throughout his career. He has already obtained many grants, served on multiple committees, panels, and organizations as well as many appointed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and the National Research Council.
Claire Fuller, dean of the Jesse D. Jones College of Science, Engineering and Technology said that the committee is very impressed by what Keller has accomplished at the University.
“The selection committee was greatly impressed by all Dr. Keller has achieved at Murray State University as well as the impact he continues to make with our students, his peers at Murray State and within his profession,” Fuller said.
Fuller also said that Keller has recently received multiple recognitions and awards solely based on what he has done, such as being named the 2019 Sandra Flynn Professor of the Year award.
Keller said he is thankful, but also humbled to receive the title.
“I am humbled to serve as the newest Jesse D. Jones Endowed Professor,” Keller said. “I’m grateful to the University and to Dr. Jones for his generosity in establishing this endowment.”
Keller will begin the endowed professorship in the fall semester.