(MURRAY, Ky.)-Murray State University’s athletics department reached a new milestone in community involvement this past year, logging 2,340 hours of service — a 95 percent jump over the previous year’s total.
The surge in volunteerism touched dozens of organizations across the Murray-Calloway County area and surrounding region, with student-athletes from every sport on campus contributing time. Altogether, Racer athletes partnered with 43 local groups, ranging from elementary schools to animal shelters to food assistance programs.
University President Dr. Ron Patterson praised the achievement, noting that student-athletes already carry heavy demands between their sport and their coursework.
“To be able to achieve this community service record is simply outstanding,” Patterson said. “I want to commend each of our incredible student-athletes, along with our coaches and staff, for their hard work making a difference throughout our community.”
Among the initiatives supported were the department’s Classroom of the Month program, Journey Bags, the Murray-Calloway County Animal Shelter, Murray-Calloway County Need Line, and the United Way, among others.
Athletics Director Nico Yantko credited the record to a broader culture of giving that has taken hold within the program.
“What we have been able to accomplish this year in competition, in the classroom, and in the community is a testament to the passion that our student-athletes have for giving back,” Yantko said.
The community service push is a central component of the Dennis Jackson Racers Leadership Program, sponsored by Swift & Staley, which was launched in January 2023. The program is designed to equip student-athletes with tools for personal growth, professional development, and life skills — from their time on campus through their careers beyond it.
The program honors Dennis Jackson, a trailblazer in Murray State history who became the university’s first African American student-athlete in 1960. Jackson earned All-Ohio Valley Conference recognition in two sports before graduating with degrees in history and physical education.
PHOTO-Murray State Athletics
