The Murray State College Foundation has named alumni Governor Bill Anoatubby the first recipient of the Legacy Award.
The Legacy Gala was created to become the principal night of philanthropy to support Murray State scholarships and the operation of the Foundation. The event will be held on the evening of Saturday, November 2nd, at the Westheimer Center for the Performing Arts.
“We are taking a step forward in our mission to provide student scholarships for deserving Murray State students and further establish sustainability for the Foundation long-term,” said Larry Sloan, Murray State College Foundation Board Chair. “Governor Anoatubby and the Chickasaw Nation are enduring partners and friends of the college, and I am pleased that we can honor him in this way.”
The Legacy Award is a distinguished honor celebrating exceptional dedication to Murray State College and a steadfast commitment to educational excellence. This award recognizes those whose enduring support has significantly enriched the college community, fostering a legacy of academic achievement and institutional growth.
“No one in our region has contributed more to the educational landscape than Governor Anoatubby,” remarked Jordyn Frazier, Executive Director of the Murray State College Foundation. “His leadership and focus to build others up provides a remarkable example for others. I am proud that our Foundation is recognizing his special contributions to Murray State.”
Governor Anoatubby received his associates degree in business from Murray State in 1970. He was elected the 30th governor of the Chickasaw Nation in 1987. The highly esteemed Chickasaw leader has since been reelected in every election and is currently serving his seventh term. Anoatubby presides over more than 50 government programs and 13 tribal businesses, manages more than 12,000 employees, and is responsible for the $350 million yearly budget.
The Chickasaw Nation is the college’s most trusted and long-standing partner. “Governor Anoatubby is someone I have come to respect and admire,” said Dr. Tim Faltyn, Murray State College President. “He makes everyone around him better and cares deeply about rural communities and bettering the lives of Chickasaw people and all Oklahomans. His contributions to Murray State College and education in general make him the ideal recipient of the Legacy Award, and what a legacy he is building.”
Sponsorships and tickets are still available for the Legacy Gala. More information can be found at www.mscok.edu/legacy-gala.