Murray State students back on campus for fall semester

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  • Courtesy Photo Samantha Hunt, Will Shelby, Rio Bonham, Kristen Chapa, Hayden Harper and Cole Stepp were all recognized on stage during 4-H Honors Night Assembly at the annual 4-H Round Up in July.
    Courtesy Photo Samantha Hunt, Will Shelby, Rio Bonham, Kristen Chapa, Hayden Harper and Cole Stepp were all recognized on stage during 4-H Honors Night Assembly at the annual 4-H Round Up in July.
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Murray State College began the 2019-20 fall semester on August 12 on both its Tishomingo and Ardmore campuses. With more than 2,000 students enrolled in over 20, 000 credit hours, those new to campus began arriving last week.

“Our New Student Symposium is always a great way to kick off the fall semester. With 400 new freshmen coming together in support of one another for academic and social connections, it was an educational and exciting day,” said MSC President Joy McDaniel.

Murray State was established in 1908 and is celebrating its 111th birthday this year. Created by former governor William H. “Alfalfa Bill” Murray as a secondary school for students engaged in agricultural pursuits, the years have brought growth and diversity to campus. This year’s freshman class includes students from throughout Oklahoma, the United States and beyond.

“It is amazing how Murray’s students are embraced by the Tishomingo community. At this year’s Rock the Block celebration, we had close to 40 community organizations on hand to welcome students. This kind of outpouring really makes a difference for students and parents, and we appreciate so much the community’s support and dedication,” said McDaniel.

The day-long symposium event began with information meetings for students and parents. Following the symposium, parents, faculty and staff gathered in Fletcher Auditorium for a convocation ceremony including a processional of faculty and staff in academic regalia, keynote speaker message and welcome of the freshman class by MSC President Joy McDaniel.

Following convocation students got to know classmates, instructors and members of the community at a Rock the Block celebration. Students in attendance were treated to booths providing food, games, prize giveaways, and information on how to get involved in the local community. Vendors handed out everything from cotton candy, snacks, and smoothies to laundry pods and toiletries. The Oklahoma National Guard set up an inflatable Wipeout game and paid for food at the event.

The fall semester began on August 12 and enrollment continues through August 16. The semester ends on December 6, 2019.