Generous Gift Establishes New Endowed Professorship in Equine Science
Donors
Vernon (鈥�73) and Cathryn Hamm
Gift
Establishment of the Vernon L. and Cathryn R. Hamm Endowed Professorship in Equine Science
Impact
The Hamms' gift, which was matched in collaboration with the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education Match Program, will enhance the Hutson School of Agriculture鈥檚 ability to recruit and retain high caliber professors who can provide Murray State鈥檚 equine students with the best education possible. The equine science program continues to grow in both quality and enrollment, and this new endowed faculty position will support this growth.
Inspiration
After graduating from Murray State, Vernon Hamm went on to earn an MBA from St. Louis University and do post graduate work at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He has enjoyed an extraordinary and successful 40-plus-year career as an international management consultant. Although not his profession, his passion for agriculture and horses runs deep. He has been actively involved in agriculture for over 30 years, served for ten years as president of the 4-H equine program in St. Clair County, Illinois, and has shown hackney harness ponies including several purchased in the Murray area. In addition, one of his daughters, Lauren Hamm (鈥�15), DVM, graduated from Murray State鈥檚 animal technology/veterinary technology program. Vernon treasures his undergraduate experience at Murray State and has remained active and engaged over the years. He and his wife Cathy are committed to supporting the ongoing success of Murray State鈥檚 equine program.