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Murray State selects Laura Foltz as vice president for finance, pending board approval

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Murray State selects Laura Foltz as vice president for finance, pending board approval

MURRAY – Dr. Laura Foltz has been named Vice President for Finance and Administrative Services at Murray State University, with the contract subject to approval by the Murray State University Board of Regents. The appointment of Foltz concludes a national search, and she will commence her role at Murray State on Jan. 26.  

Foltz brings 30 years of experience in fiscal management, operational improvement and strategic transformation. Since 2013, she has served as Special Assistant to the Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration for Strategic Initiatives at the University of Tennessee at Martin (UTM), providing executive leadership with campuswide fiscal initiatives and enterprise modernization. 

Her responsibilities have included leading consultant engagement for the university’s master plan, developing and evaluating auxiliary service bids, directing campus enterprise resource planning, training, and overseeing year-end close entries. Foltz has been a campus expert and system liaison for policy, accreditation and compliance, and provided market analyses for tuition restructuring, building utilization for capital requests, capital funding rationale for new projects, and operations review for service units. 

Prior to UTM, Foltz advanced through various levels of responsibility and leadership at East Carolina University, including serving as Assistant Director of Systems Coordination and Systems Accountant. 

Professional experience includes serving as a Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Accreditation Financial Reviewer, a member of the UT Leadership Institute as well as the Next Generation Chief Business Officer’s Institute, and certification with the National Incident Management System.

Foltz holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership & Policy from Vanderbilt University, both a Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from the University of Arkansas, and is a Certified Management Accountant from the Institute of Management Accountants.

“I am honored to serve as the Vice President for Finance and Administrative Services,” Foltz said. “As a first-generation college graduate, I am passionate about how education changes lives and look forward to joining the Racer Family and working alongside the dedicated faculty and staff to steward the University’s resources in support of students and a strong future for Murray State University. Go Racers!”

“I am excited to welcome Dr. Laura Foltz to Murray State University as our next Vice President for Finance and Administrative Services,” Murray State President Dr. Ron Patterson said. “Dr. Foltz brings excellent leadership experience and knowledge in multiple facets, and will serve well in helping advance Murray State University. Thank you to our executive search committee as well as Greenwood Asher & Associates for their commitment and assistance throughout the search process.”

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Kentucky files nation’s first lawsuit against AI chatbot accused of endangering kids

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Kentucky files nation’s first lawsuit against AI chatbot accused of endangering kids

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Attorney General Russell Coleman announced today Kentucky is the first state in the nation to launch a lawsuit against an artificial intelligence chatbot company that has preyed on children and led them into self-harm. Filed in Franklin Circuit Court, the complaint alleges Character Technologies, its owners and its product Character.AI broke Kentucky law by prioritizing their own profits over the safety of children.

Character.AI is marketed as providing harmless chatbots for interactive entertainment. In reality, however, its more than 20 million monthly users were logging on to a platform with a record of encouraging suicide, self-injury, isolation and physical manipulation. It also exposed minors to sexual conduct, exploitation, and substance abuse.

According to the complaint, it is “dangerous technology that induces users into divulging their most private thoughts and emotions and manipulates them with too frequently dangerous interactions and advice.”

Character.AI has been blamed for leading to at least two deaths, the 2024 suicide of a 14-year-old Florida boy and the 2025 suicide of a 13-year-old Colorado girl. Both children engaged in self-harm after prolonged exposure to the platform chatbots.

Tens of thousands of Kentuckians actively log on to Character.AI, including thousands under the age of 18. That number could be even higher, given the platform’s total lack of age verification. Recent claims from the company to increase safety features were derided as “comical” for how easy children could bypass them.

“The United States must be a leader in the development of AI, but it can’t come at the expense of our kids’ lives,” said Attorney General Coleman. “Too many children – including in Kentucky – have fallen prey to this manipulative technology. Our Office is going to hold these companies accountable before we lose one more loved one to this tragedy.”

The Attorney General’s complaint alleges the company has violated the Kentucky Consumer Protection Act, the Kentucky Consumer Data Protection Act and other laws. The Commonwealth is seeking to force the platform to change its dangerous practices and pay monetary damages.

The Attorney General’s Civil Chief Justin Clark, Division Chief for Consumer and Senior Protection Chris Lewis and Assistant Attorneys General Gary Thompson and Alex Scutchfield filed the complaint on behalf of the Commonwealth.

Read the complaint.

MCCH Annual City/County Meeting

Jessica Paine
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The Murray-Calloway County Hospital Board of Trustees will hold its annual city/county meeting at noon on Friday, Jan. 16, in the 2nd floor meeting room at the CFSB Sycamore Banking Center, 414 South 12th St., and via Microsoft Teams.

Those planning on attending in person are asked to RSVP to marketing@murrayhospital.org.

Microsoft Teams connection details:

HTTPS://BIT.LY/ANNUALCITYCOUNTYMTG2026

MEETING ID: 28283465889809

PASSCODE: DN9RY9SS

In remembrance: John “Johnny” Gingles

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In remembrance: John “Johnny” Gingles

July 1, 1951 – Jan. 6, 2026

John “Johnny” Thomas Gingles, age 74, died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, on Jan. 6, 2026.

Johnny was born on July 1, 1951, in Murray, to Rob and Gwen (Nance) Gingles. He graduated from Murray High School in 1969 and Murray State University in 1973.

He taught physical education at North Elementary and, over his 27-year career, coached various sports at Calloway County High School. Upon retiring from teaching, he continued to work and serve the community as the elected District Four Magistrate for 23 years. In addition, he served eight years as a member of the Murray-Calloway County Parks Board and 20 on the Calloway County Board of Health. In 2011, Governor Steve Beshear appointed him a Kentucky Colonel.

Johnny was also well known for his hobbies and side businesses, including starting and running the Penny Pumpkin Patch in 1992 with his children. In 2008, he established the Penny Grocery Museum, filled with Calloway County historical memorabilia. An avid collector, he collected everything from baseball cards and antique signs to Murray and Calloway County memorabilia.

He enjoyed Murray State and University of Kentucky sports, the Pittsburgh Steelers, the St. Louis Cardinals, and playing and watching golf. He was a member of Glendale Road Church of Christ. Most recently, he authored the book Growing Up in Calloway County in the 50’s and 60’s: My Memories.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy Gingles, who passed away at home on December 30, 2025 (view obituary); a sister he lost at birth, Nancy Ann Gingles; and his longtime loyal companion, his dog Chester.

He is survived by his mother, Gwen; his son Rob Gingles and wife Kayla of Murray; his son Hunter Gingles of Murray; and his daughter, Ellen Prinzi of Jupiter, Florida. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: Luke and Samantha Prinzi, Piper Gingles, Sawyer McCuiston, Aiden Marr, Lukas Mitchell, Bella McCadams, and Zayne Barnard.

He leaves behind his beloved dog, Finnie, who fiercely watched over him in his final years.

Visitation will be held at J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services on Sunday, Jan. 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. A funeral service will be held at J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services on Sunday, Jan. 11, at 2 p.m. with a private family burial to follow. John Dale will officiate the funeral service. This will be a joint service with his brother, Jimmy Gingles.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Penny Grocery Museum, c/o Hunter Gingles at 175 Coleman Trail, Murray, KY 42071.

Online condolences can be made at www.jhchurchill.com.

Beshear ties jobs, housing and health care to ‘reigniting the American dream’

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Beshear ties jobs, housing and health care to ‘reigniting the American dream’

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Tonight, Gov. Andy Beshear delivered his seventh State of the Commonwealth and final Budget Address to Kentucky families, reporting that the “state of the commonwealth remains strong; but our people, our commonwealth and our country are facing serious new challenges, and it’s our job to meet this moment.”

The Governor began his address by sharing that, for the first time in his lifetime, a large portion of the American public is questioning one of the most important foundations of our country: the American Dream.

“The American Dream is as simple as it is powerful: If you work hard and play by the rules, you can get ahead and build a better life,” said Gov. Beshear. “As leaders, we have a responsibility to reignite and refuel the American Dream. For the sake of future generations, it must burn bright in the minds of our people.”

Gov. Beshear stated that the American Dream begins with a job – and that no administration has created more. In the last six years, the Beshear administration has more than doubled Kentucky’s previous investment record with over $45 billion in new investment, marking the first-, second-, third- and fifth-biggest years for economic development on record. Team Kentucky has also broken job-creation records, with 68,000 new jobs at the highest three-year average for new wages in our history.

In attendance were representatives from several milestone economic announcements this year, including team members from GE Appliances, representing the company’s $3 billion investment in new American manufacturing and the creation of 800 new Kentucky jobs; leaders from General Matter, which announced a $1.5 billion investment in Paducah; and Maureen Carpenter, president and CEO of Barren County Economic Authority, representing the $61.2 million project from Tate that will create 400 new jobs in Glasgow.

To ensure this success continues, the Governor’s proposed budget begins by reinvesting in job creation through $70 million for site development, $100 million for infrastructure to support large projects, and $25 million for a rural economic development fund to bring jobs to every part of the commonwealth.

A good job is where the American Dream starts, but a home is where it lives. In 2025, Kentucky scored as one of the best states in the nation for home affordability. The commonwealth was also recognized nationally for rebuilding efforts after natural disasters. In Western Kentucky, 254 homes are being built for tornado survivors, and the Governor announced the single largest affordable housing investment in Kentucky’s history with $223 million going toward 953 rental units. In Eastern Kentucky, progress is being made at eight high-ground communities with more than 500 new homes for flood survivors.

“While these efforts are amazing, they’re not enough. Sadly, owning that home seems out of reach for too many Americans,” said Gov. Beshear. “To preserve the American Dream of owning a home, Kentucky needs a big, bold investment now. It can’t wait. It can’t be incremental.”

To that end, Gov. Beshear is proposing a game-changing $150 million investment in Kentucky’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Combined with private funding, it will create $1 billion in new housing for Kentuckians across the state.

The Governor went on to recognize Team Kentucky’s ongoing efforts to expand health care. Across the commonwealth, Team Kentucky has helped open or break ground on several new hospitals, including Norton West Louisville – the first hospital in West Louisville in 150 years – and Pikeville Medical Center’s new children’s hospital and Appalachian Valley Autism Center, as well as facilities in Lexington, Owensboro and Paducah, and in Bullitt, Floyd and Mason counties.

The Governor also shared important milestones such as marking three straight years of declines in overdose deaths in Kentucky; expanding Medicaid to include dental, vision and hearing, which resulted in over 284,556 Kentuckians receiving support; doubling the number of mental health professionals in the state; and making safe, regulated medical cannabis available in Kentucky.

“Sadly, a lot of our progress is now at risk due to decisions at the federal level,” said Gov. Beshear. “That’s why my budget pushes back, investing in our people and our health care.”

To combat the impacts of President Trump’s “big, ugly bill,” as well as Congress’s decision not to extend tax credits for affordable health care, the Governor’s budget fully funds Medicaid; provides $100 million to lower the cost of coverage on the state’s health insurance exchange, kynect; expands the number of Michelle P. Waiver slots for families of children with special needs; includes $25 million for nursing student loan forgiveness; and creates a $125 million rural hospital fund.

Several health-care heroes were in attendance, including nurses from Galen College of Nursing and Dr. Jason Smith, the CEO of UofL Health Care who co-authored “Medicaid cuts threaten lives, jobs and Kentucky’s Future.” The Governor said his budget is a reflection that Kentucky believes in these heroes and that health care should be available for everyone.

Gov. Beshear also highlighted progress being made when it comes to the roads that lead the way to the American Dream. Since 2020, Team Kentucky has replaced or repaired 660 state and local bridges and completed or made progress on 20,000 miles of road improvements. The Governor recognized progress on major projects, including finishing the U.S. 460 Corridor in Pike County; completing the I-69 Ohio River Crossing approach; and beginning construction on the final stretch of the Mountain Parkway Expansion through the heart of Appalachia.

“It’s been talked about for decades, and now I’m the first governor that can say every portion of four-laning the Mountain Parkway is now complete or under construction,” said Gov. Beshear.

The American Dream is rooted in hope, but the Governor acknowledged that it can be extinguished through fear, which is why public safety remains a priority for his administration. Through increasing pay, training resources and more, Team Kentucky has boosted the Kentucky State Police (KSP) up to 1,896 team members and has helped increase local law enforcement to over 8,000. The Governor also recognized progress in protecting children with over 474 online predator arrests since 2019.

“Making our communities safer is about more than just arresting criminals. It’s about preventing crime all together,” the Governor said as he recognized the importance of Kentucky securing another record low recidivism rate.

To ensure that progress continues, the Governor is building upon efforts to provide second chances and real job opportunities. Following the announcement of more than a dozen new vocational programs in Kentucky prisons and partnerships with businesses to create more second chance opportunities, the Beshear administration has teamed up with Kentucky Community and Technical College System President Ryan Quarles to seek funding for a nonpartisan, game-changing project: a reentry campus that will make Kentuckians safer and the commonwealth a national model.

After another year of challenges and losses due to tornadoes, floods and the UPS plane crash, the Governor took a moment to remember those lost, recognize the families suffering, and give thanks to the brave first responders and National Guard members who have helped save lives.

“Each response reminds me that strength is not bravado or bullying but a resolve built on love, kindness and a commitment to our fellow human beings,” said Gov. Beshear. “Tonight, let’s recognize and remember all the families that have suffered loss and give a big thank you to all our first responders.”

In attendance were members of the Okolona Fire Department in Louisville who led the response to the UPS plane crash that took the lives of 15 people.

The Governor then reminded Kentuckians that, while part of the American Dream is about adults doing well, the core of the American Dream is about empowering our children to do better.

“Our priority – always – must be the future, and our future is molded in our public schools,” said the Governor. “I am unapologetically a 100% pro-public education Governor.”

Once again, the Governor’s budget does what’s right by proposing $159 million for mandatory educator raises and a proposal to increase take-home pay by nearly 7%. His budget also increases education funding per pupil and adds $560 million to Kentucky’s teachers’ retirements.

Gov. Beshear then said the single most effective way for Kentucky to succeed with this next budget is by funding Pre-K for All.

Pre-K for All will increase kindergarten readiness, boost parents’ earnings by nearly $9,000 per year for at least six years, and grow Kentucky’s workforce by up to 70,000.

“To members of the General Assembly: We were able to work together on medical cannabis, to make sports betting legal, to protect horse racing and gaming and our horse industry. Surely we can come together for 4-year-olds,” said Gov. Beshear. “Pre-K for All is the right thing to do. Let’s get it done.”

The Governor then spoke about the challenges Kentuckians face due to tariffs, national uncertainty and the Trump administration’s attack on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, and noted that without action, families will suffer. Gov. Beshear’s proposal steps up to help those in need by providing $50 million to help Kentucky food banks do more and creating a $75 million fund to help at-risk Kentuckians pay their utility bills.

In closing, Gov. Beshear recognized that we are living in chaotic times: “In such times, I hope and pray that God grants us the wisdom to see beyond the anger of today’s politics and to the possibility and promise that tomorrow holds.”

The Governor then shared the story of Jimmy and Jessica Alexander, Taylor Hall and Adam Arnold; Good Samaritans who helped save the life of KSP Trooper Jude Remilien, who was in attendance. He stated these Kentuckians exemplify the goodness we see in our people during times of need.

“We always come together in times of need and it’s what makes me so proud to be a Kentuckian,” said the Governor. “In Kentucky, we’ve turned down the temperature. We’ve worked together, because our people deserve a government that unites instead of divides; works for the good of all of us, instead of creating an ‘us’ versus a ‘them.’”

The Governor reminded Kentuckians that it is our job – our duty – to not leave a broken country to our children. He called on everyone across the commonwealth to favor unity over division and inclusion over discrimination as we navigate this moment we’ve been entrusted with.

“This moment in our history, how we conduct our business today, will determine how future Kentuckians view us,” said Gov. Beshear. “So, let’s stay focused and deliver a 2026 filled with prosperity and promise.”

The Governor was joined by First Lady Britainy Beshear, former Gov. Steve Beshear and former First Lady Jane Beshear.

For the complete text of the Governor’s address, click here. The speech can be viewed on the Governor’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.

Horne named KMEA State Administrator of the Year

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Horne named KMEA State Administrator of the Year

MURRAY – Bob Horne, former Murray Middle School principal who retired in 2025, has been named the 2025-2026 KMEA (Kentucky Music Educators Association) State Administrator of the Year. Horne received the KMEA District 1 award for 2024-25, making him eligible for the statewide 2025-26 award.

Photo provided

The award recognizes and thanks administrators for emphasizing and valuing their institution’s music programs. It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to music education in Kentucky, both at the K-12 and collegiate levels. The award is presented at the KMEA annual conference, along with other recognitions for students, faculty, and alumni.

Horne will be presented the award during the 2026 KMEA Conference Awards Ceremony, Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, on the Upper Concourse stage at the Kentucky International Convention Center in Louisville.

Related Content: Murray Tiger Band earns top honors amid leadership change

    In remembrance: Jane Shoemaker

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    In remembrance: Jane Shoemaker

    March 3, 1951 – Dec. 25, 2025

    Jane Miller Shoemaker, age 74, of Murray, Kentucky passed away Thursday, December 25, 2025, at her home.

    Ms. Shoemaker was born in Calloway County on March 3, 1951, to the late Douglas and Louise Miller Shoemaker. She was a 1969 graduate of Calloway County High School. She graduated from Murray State University where she obtained her Bachelor of Science degree and later graduated from Texas Tech University with her Master of Arts in Sociology.

    Jane was a patriot and had a historian’s soul. She was past Regent for the Captain Wendell Oury Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was an active member of the Calloway County Genealogical and Historical Society. She was a Kentucky Colonel and served her community through Murray Rotary Club and Playhouse in the Park.

    Jane was a servant leader and was dedicated to improving the city of Murray. Having served on Murray City Council for six years, she voted what she thought was best for the city despite self-interest. She served on the Human Rights Commission along with other committees that allowed her to work tirelessly for the good of the city and community looking at the long term rather than the short benefits.

    She was an active member of the Humane Society of Calloway County cherishing the opportunities to love and foster many cats. Her photo albums are full of pictures of each cat, its name and when it was adopted.

    Jane loved music. She was voted Most Talented of Senior Favorites in her graduating class of Calloway County High School. She compiled cassette tapes and CDs from her favorite musician/bands to share with her “Besties” from Hazel.

    Jane was a member of Mason’s Chapel United Methodist Church where she played the piano at a young age. She is survived by several cousins, her sweet cat, Emmy Ann, her lifelong “Hazel Girls”; as well as many close friends. Jane’s beautiful smile and wonderful personality are just a few of her qualities that will be remembered.

    A memorial service will be held at a later date.

    Online condolences can be made at www.jhchurchill.com.

    Beshear announces digital REAL ID option for Kentuckians

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    Beshear announces digital REAL ID option for Kentuckians

    FRANKFORT, Ky. – In keeping with Team Kentucky’s commitment to prevent identity theft and deliver modern licensing services, Gov. Andy Beshear today announced that Kentuckians can download Kentucky Mobile ID – a secure digital version of a standard or REAL ID driver’s license or ID accepted for air travel at more than 250 airports.

    The app is used at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints to verify a user’s identity and helps protect privacy by sharing only the information needed. The app does not replace a physical ID or driver’s license, which should still be carried at all times.

    “Mobile ID offers Kentuckians more options for air travel, while further protecting them from identity theft or having their private information shared,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “We want our families to be safe and feel safe while they are traveling, and this is just another step Team Kentucky is taking to increase safety for our people.”

    A Kentucky Mobile ID is a voluntary, state-approved version of a person’s Kentucky driver’s license, permit or ID card ideal for air travel, age-restricted purchases or transactions requiring verification at participating establishments. The digital version is stored on the user’s smartphone as a valid form of ID locked behind a mobile phone’s unique PIN, Touch ID or Face ID, so that, if the device is lost or stolen, the ID is locked – unlike a physical ID in a lost or stolen wallet that could be used by someone else. The authenticity of the Mobile ID is ensured through verification with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), based on records created when a user applies for a driver’s license or state ID.

    Kentuckians with a state license, permit or ID card can request a digital version through the app. Kentuckians who register for a mobile ID using a standard driver’s license but are approved for a REAL ID at a Driver Licensing Regional Office will have their upgraded status reflected on the app within days before their physical card arrives in the mail. Federal REAL ID enforcement began May 7, 2025, requiring an accepted form of REAL ID for U.S. commercial air travel and military base entry.  

    Eighteen other states and Puerto Rico offer IDEMIA’s Mobile ID app. Those states are Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Utah, Virginia and West Virginia.

    “Everything’s in your phone; now your ID can be too,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “A digital ID serves as an addition to a physical ID, allowing Kentuckians convenience when proving their identity. One of the biggest benefits is letting cardholders limit showing only necessary personal information during a transaction or service, like withholding your address when proving your age to buy restricted items.”

    Not all Kentucky businesses or state agencies may accept mobile IDs, so Kentuckians should always continue to carry a hard copy of their driver’s license or state identification.  State law requires law enforcement to request physical operators’ licenses when conducting a traffic stop or responding to a crash. Therefore, Kentuckians who choose to download a Mobile ID must be prepared to present a hard copy upon request.

    Kentucky’s Mobile ID is accepted at TSA security checkpoints at most U.S. airports, including the Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky International Airport in Covington, the Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Barkley Regional Airport in Paducah, and Louisville’s Muhammad Ali International Airport.

    A merchant can also verify Mobile ID by using the free “Mobile ID Verify App,” available in the App Store or Google Play. The verifier and the credential holder’s apps communicate via Bluetooth with end-to-end encryption. The verifier must select which information they are requesting to access. The user has the option to accept or reject the requested information, and an additional alert will pop-up if the verifier requests to temporarily store the information. Not all merchants may accept Mobile ID, and individuals should be prepared to present a hard copy of their identification if required for purchase.

    How to Get Your Kentucky Mobile ID

    Kentuckians can get their Mobile ID in a few simple steps:

    • Download the Kentucky Mobile ID Verify app from the App Store or through Google Play.
    • Register the phone number of the Mobile ID device. An individual’s Mobile ID can only be on one device at a time to help protect their identity.
    • Take a picture of the front and back of your physical ID (driver license, permit, or non-driver ID), using their phone’s camera.
    • Take a live selfie. The app checks your photo and ID against information on file with your Transportation Cabinet driving record to ensure you are who you say you are.
    • Once your information is verified, your Mobile ID is active and ready to use wherever it is accepted.
    • To learn more about Mobile ID or how to verify a Mobile ID, visit drive.ky.gov/mobile-id.

    Implementing Kentucky Mobile ID is the first step before launching other digital driver licensing wallet options (e.g., Apple, Google, Samsung) in the future. Before releasing other digital wallet apps, Kentucky must first complete its modernization of its current driver licensing system in the summer of 2026. More information will be available at a later date.

    Video provided

    CORRECTION: A previous headline on this article erroneously stated Kentucky’s mobile REAL ID would be coming soon; however, it is available now. We apologize for the error.

    Retired MSU finance VP Jackie Dudley named interim CFO at EKU

    Jessica Paine
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    Retired MSU finance VP Jackie Dudley named interim CFO at EKU

    RICHMOND, Ky. — Effective Feb. 1, former Murray State University Vice President of Finance and Administration Jackie Dudley will serve as interim chief financial officer and vice president for finance at Eastern Kentucky University, according to an email EKU President David McFaddin sent to stakeholders this morning.

    Following a four-decade career at Murray State that included oversight of financial operations and multiple administrative divisions, Dudley announced her retirement at a special called Board of Regents meeting in July.

    “I am confident that our finance team, under Jackie’s leadership, will maintain continuity in all financial operations and reporting during this period of change,” McFaddin wrote. “We are lucky to bring someone with such extensive experience and a proven track record of positive results to lead through this change. I have personally worked with and observed her outstanding leadership for nearly 15 years.”

    According to the email, Brian Mullins is stepping down from the CFO position to return to the private sector. McFaddin expressed gratitude for Mullins’ willingness to take on the role on an interim basis in 2024, following a failed national search for a permanent CFO.

    “Brian’s tenure at EKU was marked by a deep sense of collaboration and fiscal responsibility,” McFaddin added. “We wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”

    McFaddin noted that the university’s current associate vice president for finance will manage the CFO’s responsibilities between now and Dudley’s start date.

    Dudley will be given her first 90 days to assess general operations and staffing within the finance division, McFaddin explained, adding, “I would then ask that a formal recommendation be given after 120 days concerning the operations of the unit and the search for a permanent Chief Financial Officer and Vice President for Finance.”

    McFaddin also advised that he plans to recommend Dudley when EKU’s Board of Regents appoints a new treasurer on Feb. 25.

    Dudley is not the only former Murray State administrator to recently move to Eastern Kentucky University. Jordan Smith resigned as MSU’s assistant vice president of public affairs in August to take the same position at EKU.

    Trump administration accepts Kentucky’s Rural Health Transformation Plan, securing over $200 million in funding

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    Trump administration accepts Kentucky’s Rural Health Transformation Plan, securing over $200 million in funding

    FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 29, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that Kentucky’s Rural Health Transformation Plan (RHTP) was accepted in full by the Trump administration, securing $212.9 million in funding to lessen the impacts of recent federal cuts and help support health care in Kentucky’s rural communities. The funding was authorized by Congress earlier this year (2025) and administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

    “Health care is a basic human right, and it was a priority for me and my administration to submit this application and fight for funding to support our rural health communities – especially following the passage of devastating Medicaid cuts,” said Gov. Beshear. “I am proud our community-driven plan was accepted in full and now $212.9 million will help provide our fellow Kentuckians with the quality care they need and deserve.”

    Kentucky’s plan was developed by the Beshear administration in partnership with health partners from across the state and will use the $212.9 million over five years to help address the unique challenges rural Kentucky faces, including high rates of chronic conditions, maternity care deserts and gaps in coverage for oral care, emergency services and behavioral health. 

    “Our Rural Health Transformation Plan reflects the best of Team Kentucky,” said Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Dr. Steven Stack. “We are working with local health leaders, hospitals, universities and community partners who share in the vision of a commonwealth where every Kentuckian can reach their full human potential and all communities thrive.”

    The Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) will lead implementation of the plan in partnership with stakeholders across the commonwealth. The Rural Health Transformation Plan addresses several of Kentucky’s most pressing rural health challenges, including:

    • Chronic disease: Seventeen percent of Kentuckians live with multiple chronic conditions, compared with 11% nationally.
    • Women’s health: Nearly 1 in 6 Kentucky women of childbearing age live in maternity care deserts, more than four times more than the national average.
    • Behavioral health: Persistent shortages of mental health professionals in rural areas place strain on emergency departments and first responders.
    • Oral health: Appalachian counties experience some of the lowest dental visit rates and highest rates of complete tooth loss among seniors.
    • Emergency response: Nearly half of Kentucky’s paramedics are concentrated in the state’s five largest counties, limiting access in rural communities.

    To address these challenges, Kentucky’s plan advances five integrated care innovation models:

    1. Rural Community Hubs for Chronic Care Innovation
      Local hub-and-spoke models focused initially on obesity and diabetes prevention and management, integrating nutrition, physical activity and digital self-management tools.
    2. PoWERing Maternal and Infant Health
      Telehealth-enabled, community-based maternal care teams expanding prenatal and postpartum services in maternity care deserts and high-risk regions.
    3. Rapid Response to Recovery (EmPATH Model)
      Mobile crisis response, telepsychiatry and stabilization services connecting individuals to community-based behavioral health and recovery supports.
    4. Rooted in Health: Rural Dental Access
      Expanded dental hygiene training, externships and portable or tele-dental clinics to improve preventive oral health services.
    5. Crisis to Care: Integrated EMS Response
      Enhanced pre-hospital care and trauma coordination through treat-in-place protocols, workforce training and improved data connectivity.

    “Team Kentucky’s rural communities are the heart of our commonwealth,” said Kentucky Department for Public Health Commissioner Dr. John Langefeld. “This is about strengthening local health systems, creating jobs and ensuring every family has the opportunity to live healthy and thrive.”

    The application process for the Rural Health Transformation Plan was guided by input from more than 100 stakeholders across the commonwealth. Team Kentucky collaborated with key partners, including the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky, the Kentucky Primary Care Association, the Kentucky Hospital Association, the Kentucky Office of Rural Health and others.

    “We’ve worked for years to tackle some of Kentucky’s toughest health challenges, and we are inspired and energized to see a unified, statewide plan to bring innovation, investment and hope to our rural communities,” said Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky President and CEO Allison Adams. “This effort reflects the best of Kentucky: partnership, practicality and a deep belief that healthier communities mean a stronger commonwealth.”

    “Kentucky’s Rural Health Transformation initiative reflects a simple truth community health centers have always embraced: Lasting change begins locally,” said Molly Lewis, CEO of the Kentucky Primary Care Association. “Through investments in prevention, primary care and community collaboration, this effort is creating a stronger, healthier future for rural Kentucky.”

    “The Kentucky Hospital Association has been pleased to work with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to help produce Kentucky’s application for the Rural Health Transformation Program,” said Nancy Galvagni, president and CEO of the Kentucky Hospital Association.

    The Rural Health Transformation application process began in September 2025, with awards announced on Dec. 29. In total, the Rural Health Transformation Plan provides $50 billion nationwide over five fiscal years between 2026 and 2030. More information about Kentucky’s Rural Health Transformation Plan will be available at RuralHealthPlan.ky.gov.

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