(MURRAY, Ky.) — Murray State University will honor a longtime champion of healthcare education by naming a classroom in the new School of Nursing and Health Professions Building after Dr. Michael Muscarella of Baptist Health Paducah.
The Board of Regents approved the designation of the Michael Muscarella Classroom for Assisted Care and Rehabilitation during a special meeting on Sept. 19. The classroom will be housed in Jackson Hall, the university’s new nursing and health professions facility currently under construction on North 16th Street.
Decades of Service to Healthcare Education
Muscarella has spent decades strengthening connections between Murray State and regional healthcare providers while advocating for students pursuing careers in medicine and allied health fields. As executive director of ambulatory services at Baptist Health Paducah, where he has worked since 1991, Muscarella oversees rehabilitation services, respiratory care, palliative care and other critical departments.
His volunteer work extends across multiple advisory boards, including the Purchase Area Health Education Center, which he chairs, and Murray State’s Occupational Therapy admissions committee. He has helped shape curriculum development and connected prospective students with healthcare career opportunities throughout the region.
“Dr. Muscarella has consistently advocated for the University in professional and community settings, encouraging young individuals to consider Murray State’s programs for their academic and career aspirations,” said Dr. Dina Byers, dean of the School of Nursing and Health Professions.
A Record of Academic Excellence
Muscarella pointed to Murray State’s strong track record in preparing students for healthcare careers, noting that 14 students were accepted to medical school and four to dental school from the university this past year alone.
“Murray State University is the keystone educational institution in our community,” Muscarella said. “It is an honor to help Murray State pathway our scholars toward the career of their dreams.”
University President Dr. Ron K. Patterson praised Muscarella’s commitment to students and community service. “Dr. Michael Muscarella embodies the virtues of dedication to his profession, commitment to students and education, work in service of others, and giving back to his community,” Patterson said.
New Building to Open in 2026
Jackson Hall is expected to be completed by summer 2026, with classes beginning that fall semester. The Kentucky General Assembly approved $45.5 million in funding for the project in 2023, and a groundbreaking ceremony was held last December.
The new facility will feature state-of-the-art technology, expanded laboratory space, larger classrooms, simulation areas and a campus health clinic. Murray State aims to raise an additional $5 million in private donations to purchase advanced teaching equipment and add enhancements to the building.
Muscarella holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Kentucky and a Bachelor of Science in physical therapy from Old Dominion University. He has served as adjunct faculty for UK’s physical therapy program for 13 years and previously led both the Kentucky Physical Therapy Association and the Rotary Club of Paducah.
Information about naming opportunities and donations for Jackson Hall is available at bit.ly/SONHPgiving.