McMurry University celebrates Hispanic student success

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – McMurry University has a significant Hispanic population, more than 40%, and has held the designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution since 2016. The focus on the Hispanic population is paying dividends, and it shows in a very active student body.

It was a ceremony only held a few times in the 102-year history of McMurry University. Dr. Lynn Murray was being formally welcomed as the University’s 11th president.

“We will continue to represent McMurry as one of only eight universities in the country,”
Murray said as she addressed the crowd.

She talked about a recognition that McMurry University may receive, one that only a few other universities across the country have received. If achieved, the recognition, called the Seal of Excelencia, means McMurry is intentionally serving Latino students and going beyond just enrollment, accelerating the success of Latino students.

Students like Carmen Velasques, who is a first-generation college student from El Paso, have thrived at McMurry University.

“Back at home, they’re less fortunate. They can always get out, so being the representation from El Paso, being Hispanic. It really says a lot. It shows a lot to my people,” Velasques shared.

She will be graduating soon and is unsure which career field she will choose, only because she now has so many opportunities to look forward to.

Additionally, McMurry University has utilized grants to implement initiatives such as a STEM Student Success Center, which received a Programs to Watch award from Excelencia in Education last year.