The Murray State College Foundation has received a grant from the Keith R. and Robin A. Gray Foundation in support of the Westheimer Southern Oklahoma Nursing Education Center (SONEC) in Ardmore.

The Gray Foundation was founded by Keith and Robin Gray in 2013. Mr. Gray serves as a regent on the Murray State College Board of Regents, the college's governing body. Regent Gray joined the board in 2021 and serves on the executive committee as secretary. His personal investment extends beyond leadership; it’s a direct commitment to the success of Murray State students and the expansion of a center of excellence that serves the communities in our region.

“Murray State has always held a special place in my heart,” Gray said. “I’ve seen firsthand this institution's transformative impact on making generational change possible for its students. Robin and I feel the SONEC will expand Murray State’s legacy of broad educational, economic, and healthcare impacts for southern Oklahoma.”

Regent Gray’s support ensures that Murray State can expand its efforts to prepare skilled graduates who will improve healthcare services in our communities, address critical needs and make a lasting difference.

“The Murray State College Foundation is grateful and honored to receive the Gray Foundation’s grant, an unexpected gift,” said Jordyn Frazier, Murray State College Foundation Executive Director. “Mr. and Mrs. Gray believe so much in what the SONEC will bring to our communities. I am in awe of their generosity.”

The Westheimer SONEC will be a 42,000-square-foot nursing education facility with classrooms, laboratories, student services, and flexible learning spaces for Murray State and its education partners. This center will offer more than 30 new jobs in Ardmore to train 250-300 nurses annually.

“Regent Gray’s contribution holds a special meaning as it comes from a dedicated member of our Board of Regents,” said Murray State College President Dr. Tim Faltyn. “It is a powerful testament to his belief in the vision set forth by the entire Board of Regents, as well as our shared mission to change how a spectrum of healthcare education is delivered in southern Oklahoma.”