Murray State president Jackson announces retirement

After 43 years with the university, Dr. Bob Jackson announced his retirement as president of Murray State effective next June. 

He will continue as President Emeritus and assist with a future transition and as a special advisor to the Board of Regents through a future date.  

Jackson has served as president since 2018., and has held other administrative roles including president of the Murray State University Foundation.

The Board of Regents will begin a search for his successor.


Under Jackson's leadership, Murray State University has experienced significant growth and success in its mission to advance higher education in our region, state and nation. The University developed a renewed focus on recruitment and retention of students, advanced new academic programs, enjoyed athletic successes and changes, enhanced the look and design of campus with a new School of Nursing and Health Professions building under construction, a Veterinary Sciences building, a Learning Commons and new Residential Hall funded and in design, along with the recent acquisition of Station 74 at Murray State University.  

In addition, a School of Veterinary Medicine continues to be planned, along with a Medical School campus in partnership with the University of Louisville. The University was recently named the #1 Best Value School in the South by U.S. News and World Report.

"Serving as President of my Alma Mater has been a lifetime honor and the capstone to my professional career," said Jackson. "I am deeply grateful for this opportunity. But, everything and everyone has a season, and Karen and I are looking forward to spending more time with family and friends, traveling, and enjoying our next chapter of life."

Jackson continued, "These have been very busy years for both of us and we are very proud of the many accomplishments during our tenure. Being a university president provides few breaks and little down time."

"Importantly, no one does these jobs alone and I am very grateful to Karen, our administrative team, the Board of Regents, faculty, staff, alumni and friends, and especially, to our students - these are the individuals who make our University a special place. The future is very bright and many opportunities remain in front of us," Jackson added.

During his tenure, Jackson guided the University through the pandemic, has overseen many significant changes including new academic buildings, celebrated the Centennial of Murray State University and co-authored our centennial history, The Finest Place We Know. He oversaw the launch of a $100 million centennial capital campaign with over $90 million raised. 

Both President Jackson and his wife, Karen, are alumni of the university.