TISHOMINGO, Okla. – The Murray State College Board of Regents has selected Regent Keith Gray as its chair for the 2026-2027 year.

Regent Gray is a Murray State College alum and attended Texas Christian University for a degree in Ranch Management. He is a third-generation owner/operator of The Gray Companies, a diverse business comprising energy, ranching, media, commercial hunting and real estate investment. Appointed to the Board by Governor Kevin Stitt in 2021, Gray’s term extends through 2032.

“Serving as a Regent is a true honor,” Gray said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to step into the role of the chair and build on the strong leadership of those who have served before me. Having served as vice chair has given me an even greater appreciation for the responsibility and opportunity we have to help guide Murray State College. I look forward to continuing the work with the Board and President Faltyn, keeping students at the center of every decision and helping the college build an event stronger future for southern Oklahoma.”

The Board of Regents also elected officers for 2026-2027. Regent Clay McCall will serve as Vice Chair. He is a fifth-generation Oklahoman from Atoka. He serves as president of AmeriState Bank in Atoka, which has expanded under his leadership to six locations across southern Oklahoma and North Texas. McCall was appointed by Governor Stitt in 2024; his term will expire in 2031.

Regent Leslie Larsen will serve as the Murray State College Foundation Representative. Larsen is a lifelong resident of southern Oklahoma and a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation. She is a Murray State alum, the co-owner of Ruth Young Travel and also serves as a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) at Cross Timbers Hospice. Larsen was appointed by Governor Stitt in 2021; her term will expire in 2028.

“Murray State holds a special place in my heart because I have had the opportunity to see firsthand what education can mean in the life of an individual,” said Larsen, Murray State College Board of Regents Immediate Past Chair. “A college changes more than a student’s circumstances. It’s impact reaches into families, communities and often generations. It has been especially rewarding to watch Murray State experience such remarkable growth and success over the past several years. That growth reflects the vision and hard work of so many people who care deeply about the institution and more importantly, the students we serve. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as Chair during this important time and to have played a small part in Murray State’s continued progress. As Regent Gray steps into this role, I have every confidence in his leadership and in the future of the college that continues to find new ways to serve its students and communities.”

The Murray State College Board of Regents is the institution’s governing body. Members are appointed by the Governor and serve seven-year terms.

“I deeply value the partnership we have with our Board of Regents,” said Dr. Tim Faltyn, Murray State College President. “They each share a genuine commitment to Murray State and our students. The trust we’ve built allows us to have thoughtful conversations about the institution’s future. Their support gives our leadership team the confidence to pursue opportunities, make meaningful investments and continue moving Murray State forward. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and excited about what lies ahead.”

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Murray State College, located in Ardmore and Tishomingo, Oklahoma, provides opportunities for student learning, personal growth, professional success, and community enhancement. Murray State serves more than 4,000 students annually. The College offers associate degrees in science, arts and applied science, and a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Gunsmithing.