UPCOMING EVENTS
Join us for the 41st Harry M. Sparks Distinguished Lecture Series as we welcome Dr. Kerry Magro.
Dr. Magro is a autistic professional speaker, author and consultant to Netflix Love on the Spectrum U.S.
PRESS RELEASES
Sara Morgan, a 2025 elementary education alumna
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Do you know a staff member who goes the extra mile to support students, faculty and colleagues? Nominations are now open for the 2026 Outstanding Staff Support Award!
Help us recognize those who make a meaningful difference in our College community by submitting a nomination today.
Nominations are due Wednesday, April 15.
✨ Celebrate the educators who make a difference every day! ✨
Submit your nominations for Outstanding Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School and High School Educators by Friday, April 3.
Award recipients will be honored at the Sparks Lecture on Tuesday, April 28.
Nominate an inspiring educator and help us recognize excellence in teaching!
We are excited to offer faculty and staff the opportunity to update their professional headshots! Whether you need a new photo for your university profile, website, or any other professional purpose, we’ve made it easy for you to schedule a session.
How to Schedule Your Appointment:
Simply use the online appointment calendar to select a time that works best for you! An email follow-up will be sent after an appointment is made.
Using technology like AI or virtual reality in the classroom?
Is your class working on a super cool project?
Schedule a time for me to stop by and grab photos (or video) of your students using technology to enhance their learning.
You can also schedule a time for me to grab photos of group work, class projects, etc.
If you already have photos, feel free to submit them here using the photo folder link!
In an effort to showcase the outstanding work of our College of Education and Human Services faculty, we will be highlighting recent presentations, publications, and other scholarly accomplishments.
Please use the Google form below to submit any recent professional accomplishments. Submissions will be featured on our COEHS bulletin board and shared on our social media platforms to celebrate and promote the impactful work happening across our college.
Thank you for helping us showcase the excellence within COEHS!
FACULTY UPDATES
Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE)'s Student Success Summit kicked off on Monday at the University of Louisville. More than 400 higher education professionals from across the Commonwealth are gathering for two days to share high-impact practices and advance student success in support of CPE’s 60x30 goal.
Kentucky continues to make meaningful progress toward that goal, as reflected in several key metrics:
#1 nationally in fall-to-fall retention
#2 in six-year degree completion rates
60% of undergraduates leave college without student debt
Murray State University was well represented at the Summit. Pictured (L to R): Dan Lavit, Rudy Ottway, Ashley Cumming, Ben Littlepage, Shea Porr, Angie Trzepacz, Leanna McClure, Jordan Garner
Dr. Littlepage connected with several graduates of the P20 and Community Leadership, and Higher Education and Student Affairs programs while at the Summit. Pictured here
Dr. Tyra Frick, '17
Dr. Shirley Hardy, '22
Rachel Evitts, '24
CLASSROOM UPDATE
ELE 311 (Health, Wellness, and Movement) students spent 15 minutes of class outside on Tuesday, 3/24. The purpose? To just be. It was a gorgeous 65 degrees and their mission was to find a comfortable spot to sit and experience nature for 15 minutes. Cell phones and earbuds were tucked away in backpacks. Students listened, watched, smelled, and felt everything around them. Afterwards, we talked about why these “green breaks” are so important for students of all ages. The benefits are immeasurable.
PHOTOS OF THE WEEK
Student Teacher Career Fair
Friday, March 13
More than 40 school districts visited campus to connect with aspiring educators, creating meaningful opportunities for networking, mentorship and career exploration. Representatives from across the region (and beyond) engaged with students to discuss employment pathways, share insights on the profession and highlight current workforce needs.
The event served as a vital bridge between preparation and practice, empowering future educators to take the next step in their careers with confidence.
High School Visit: Fulton County
Friday, March 20
Dean Whaley and Dr. Schwenck spent Friday of Spring Break at Fulton County High School, where they connected with prospective students.
Principal Advisory Council
Tuesday, March 24
The College of Education and Human Services welcomed more than 30 regional principals for the Principal Advisory Council. Representing elementary through high school, these leaders engaged in meaningful dialogue, sharing insights and collaborating on the challenges shaping today’s schools.
Spring Semester - 2026
January 12- Spring Term Begins
January 19- Campus Closed
March 4- First Half Semester Ends
March 5- Second Half Semester Begins
March 16-20- Spring Break
March 25- Racer Day
April 22- Spring Senior Breakfast
April 28- Sparks Lecture
May 9- Spring Commencement (in Racer Arena due to CFSB Renovation)
The mission of the College of Education and Human Services is to prepare future leaders, advocates, and practitioners through authentic, engaging, and student-centered academic programs for successful careers that positively impact communities.