The Messenger 04.02.10
Dr. Bonnie Higginson has been appointed as Murray (Ky.) State University’s next provost.
The announcement was made by MSU President Dr. Randy J. Dunn.
“I am pleased to recommend Bonnie to our board of regents for this position and feel that she has the best basis of experience and leadership acumen to continue the academic excellence for which we are known,” Dunn said.
“When I considered the overall package of what we needed, Bonnie has the background, work ethic, demeanor and extensive knowledge in several key areas that will be vital to furthering our academic enterprise and the university as a whole.”
The university launched a comprehensive search process that began when current provost Dr. Gary Brockway announced his retirement in October 2009.
“I appreciate the tremendous effort exhibited by the search committee as it undertook this important process that ultimately led to my recommendation of Dr. Higginson,” Dunn said. “The process was crucial in realizing what our campus needs at this point in time, and the type of leadership our many campus constituency groups—both internal and external—will unite behind.”
“Murray State has provided me with incredible opportunities over my 30-year career and I am truly honored to be named provost and vice president for academic affairs,” Ms. Higginson said.
Ms. Higginson, a 30-year veteran of higher education, has an impressive résumé that begins with undergraduate and graduate work at Murray State. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Georgia in 1985. She then returned to MSU and served in various roles within the college of education, including professor and chair.
Additionally, she served as faculty head of White College from 2000–07. Since 2007, she has has served as associate provost for academic affairs.
“I hope to provide leadership that is aligned with MSU’s vision to build on our reputation as one of the best student-centered, comprehensive universities in the nation,” Ms. Higginson said. “Our faculty is second to none and I look forward to assisting each college in realizing its goals for the future.”
Ms. Higginson’s appointment, effective July 1, is for a three-year term with the possibility of a fourth-year extension in the position. She has indicated she will not be a candidate for the position when her term ends.