(MURRAY, Ky.) — The Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce has announced its Leadership Murray Class of 2025-2026, which includes three notable representatives from Murray State University: two staff members and a Board of Regents member.
The Murray State participants are Blaire Bushart Gray, deputy Title IX coordinator and investigator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX; Samantha Rudolph, recruitment coordinator for the School of Nursing and Health Professions; and Dr. David Meinschein, vice chair of the Murray State Board of Regents and superintendent of the Murray Independent School District.
A Transformative Leadership Experience
Leadership Murray is an intensive 10-month leadership development program that brings together emerging and established leaders from across the community. The program features immersive monthly sessions covering critical areas including economic development, education, government, human services, and community health. Participants also attend a two-day opening retreat and make a legislative visit to Frankfort during West Kentucky Thank You Night.
For both Gray and Rudolph, their experiences at Murray State have been instrumental in preparing them for this opportunity.
“Serving as the recruitment coordinator within the School of Nursing and Health Professions has not only strengthened my ability to guide and support others, but it has also inspired me to lead with purpose—fostering growth in students, colleagues and the communities we serve,” Rudolph explained. She credits much of her leadership inspiration to her dean, Dr. Byers, whose example of leading “with strength, compassion and vision” continues to motivate her growth as a leader.
Gray similarly acknowledges the mentorship she has received at Murray State. “My time at Murray State has significantly shaped my leadership abilities by providing hands-on opportunities to lead campus initiatives and conduct both large and small group programming, allowing me to grow in confidence and responsibility,” she said. The guidance from dedicated staff members who modeled effective leadership has inspired her to “lead with empathy and pursue opportunities to grow as a leader within the campus community.”
Strong Endorsements from Leadership
The selection of Gray and Rudolph has earned praise from their supervisors, who highlighted their leadership potential and dedication.
Dr. Dina Byers, dean of the School of Nursing and Health Professions, expressed pride in Rudolph’s selection. “Sam exemplifies the qualities of a leader in everything she does as our recruitment coordinator,” Byers said. “She has a passion for connecting future students with opportunities in healthcare, combined with her innovative and collaborative nature make her a natural choice for this program.”
Camisha Pierce Duffy, executive director of Murray State’s Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX coordinator, praised Gray’s selection as recognition of “both her professional accomplishments and her ongoing commitment to community leadership.” Duffy noted that Gray “continues to serve students and employees with the highest level of dedication and skill.”
Distinguished Board Member Joins Class
Dr. Meinschein brings extensive educational leadership experience to the program. Appointed to Murray State’s Board of Regents by Governor Andy Beshear in July 2022, he holds degrees from multiple institutions, including a bachelor’s in biology from Murray State, a master’s in science education from Piedmont College, and a specialist’s degree in leadership from Lincoln Memorial University. He is also a proud member of the first graduating class of P-20 doctoral students at Murray State University.
Building Community Connections
This year’s Leadership Murray class comprises 19 local leaders representing diverse sectors across the private, public, and nonprofit communities. The program aims to deepen participants’ understanding of pressing community challenges while fostering meaningful connections across different organizations.
Since its inception in 1982, Leadership Murray has served as a catalyst for civic involvement, leadership development, and stronger community bonds throughout the Murray-Calloway County area.
“We are proud to have several Racers as part of the 2025-26 Leadership Murray class – congratulations to Dr. David Meinschein, Blaire Bushart Gray and Samantha Rudolph in being selected for this prestigious program,” said Murray State President Dr. Ron Patterson. “We are very grateful to the Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce for all that they do to enhance our community through these types of initiatives.”
For more information about Leadership Murray, visit mymurray.com/leadership-murray.
Photos, L-R: Blaire Bushart Gray, Dr. David Meinschein, Samantha Rudolph