Black Alumni Network Awards
The Murray State University (MSU) Black Alumni Network presents awards of distinction during its Black Alumni Reunions or other designated times as established by the network. These awards represent the highest honor bestowed upon MSU Black Alumni, students, faculty, or administrators by the MSU Black Alumni Network.
Dennis Jackson Trailblazer Alumni Award
The Dennis Jackson Trailblazer Alumni Award is presented to Murray State University
alumni who have made significant achievements and contributions to their communities
or professions and devoted their time and effort in servant leadership. The recipient
of this award will demonstrate a heart of great passion to give and to serve. The
recipients may have excelled in their respective careers, given immensely of themselves
to their communities or served as great role models for other alumni and/or students
to emulate. One recipient will be recognized.
Nancy Tyler Demartra Outstanding Alumni Award
The Nancy Tyler Demartra Outstanding Black Alumni Award recognizes outstanding Black
alumni who have been stellar leaders within the University community and/or within
their local community. The award is named in honor of Murray State's first Black graduate,
Nancy Tyler Demartra, who graduated in 1961 with a BA in elementary education and
a master's degree two years later. This award has two (2) potential categories: Young
Alumni (age 40 and under) and Overall Achievement (no class or age requirement).
Mary Ford Holland Courageous Leader Award
The Mary Ford Holland Courageous Leader Award bears the name of Mary Ford Holland,
the first African American student to enroll at Murray State University. The award
recognizes noteworthy and distinctive achievements made by alumni or students from
Murray State University. The recipient of the award should demonstrate significant
accomplishments or promise in their fields, offer inspiration and encouragement as
models for principled leadership, and exhibit civic, cultural, or charitable involvement
within their communities. One recipient will be recognized.
Dr. Steve Jones Exemplary Faculty/Staff Award
The Dr. Steve Jones, Outstanding Faculty/Staff Award honors a faculty or staff member,
past or present, who has made outstanding contributions to the MSU community and to
educating MSU students (nominee does not have to be an alumnus). One recipient will
be recognized. (Image courtesy of Paducah Sun).