MURRAY – During Murray High School’s annual Black History Month program Friday, Murray State University President Dr. Ron Patterson made the case that the progress African-Americans have made over many decades has always been inextricably linked with education.
Originally from Corinth, Mississippi and most recently president at Nebraska’s Chadron State College, Patterson has been Murray State’s president since last July. After being invited to deliver the keynote address at this year’s program, Patterson said he was extremely proud to be introduced by his son, Braylon, a Murray High freshman. Patterson said he was honored to participate in the program, which this year was given the theme of leadership, education and commitment.
“Those three words – leadership, education and commitment – they tell the story of black history in America,” Patterson said. “They reflect the perseverance in the face of challenges, excellence in pursuing opportunities and a deep sense of responsibility, not only to oneself, but also to future generations.”
Patterson said African-Americans have helped build the nation in extraordinary ways, often without recognition or equal access, as well as with great personal sacrifice. Yet time and time again, he said, leadership emerged, and education was the pathway.
“Black history is not separate from American history,” Patterson said. “It is an important and equal part of our American history. And that history is not only national, it is local.”
Murray State, of course, was the site of several milestones during the civil rights era, and Patterson recalled how Mary Ford Holland became the first black student to enroll at the institution, then known as Murray State College. This was in 1955, just a year after the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark Brown v. Board of Education ruling, which paved the way for public schools to become integrated across the country.
“She was already a teacher (and was) educated, but she believed deeply in the power of education and to expand opportunity,” Patterson said. “After years of persistence, she graduated in August 1961 with a bachelor’s degree in education, and went on to dedicate decades of her life to educating and uplifting young people. Today, a historical marker resides on Murray State University’s campus and stands as a reminder of courage that helped change what was possible.”
In May 1961, only three months before Holland earned her degree, Nancy Tyler Demartra became the first black student to graduate from Murray State, earning a degree in elementary education.
“Her achievement represented more than a milestone,” Patterson said. “It affirmed that commitment to learning could open doors for generations to follow, including myself.”
Patterson said that same spirit was evident in Dennis Jackson, the first black student athlete at Murray State. A proud native of Murray, Jackson spent more than 40 years after his 1965 graduation leading, mentoring and shaping young lives as an educator, coach and administrator for Paducah’s public school system.
“To the students of Murray High School,” Patterson said, “Mr. Dennis Jackson’s legacy reminds us that what you start here at Murray High School … can have a ripple effect outward into the very classrooms that you attend today, into the very communities in which we travel, and the careers far beyond this moment today.”
Patterson said the belief that education unlocks opportunity is central to Murray State’s mission. With students being the priority, he said their needs and success are his “North Star” as president and the reason he wakes up every day. He said each of them deserves an opportunity to reach their highest potential, regardless of their background, ZIP code or circumstances.
“That means ensuring access, fostering belonging and preparing students not only for careers, but also for leadership and service,” Patterson said. “At Murray State, we serve students from small towns, rural communities and cities across the region. We serve students in many cultures, identities and lived experiences. We deeply believe that our shared commitment to excellence strengthens our entire community. …
“Excellence does not come from sameness. It comes from a shared purpose. Education has always been essential to black history. When access was denied, education became an act of hope. When opportunity was limited, learning became an act of resistance. And when doors opened, education became a bridge to leadership, service and generational progress.”
