MURRAY, Ky. — The Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence has announced the appointment of Dr. Don Tharpe, a Murray State University alumnus and former Board of Regents Chair, to its statewide membership.
Brigitte Blom, President & CEO of the Prichard Committee, stated: “Don brings decades of leadership and a deep understanding of education and community development to the Prichard Committee. His experience in building strong organizations and advancing equity will help us strengthen our work across Kentucky, ensuring that every child—regardless of where they live—has access to an excellent education.”
Dr. Tharpe commented on his new role: “I’m honored to join the Prichard Committee and support its mission of ensuring every Kentucky student has access to a high-quality education. I’m excited to work alongside passionate leaders across the state to strengthen schools, expand opportunities, and make a real difference in the lives of children and families.”
The committee’s membership is composed of individuals from various backgrounds who share a commitment to improving education in Kentucky. Members collaborate on policy initiatives, promote local involvement, and advocate for educational opportunities throughout the state.
Tharpe grew up in Mayfield, Kentucky and graduated from Mayfield High School in 1970. He earned both undergraduate and graduate degrees in industrial education from Murray State University (1974, 1975), received the university’s Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2005, and was honored with the African American Heritage Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. He completed his doctorate in Higher Education Administration at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
His career includes being named a Kentucky Colonel by Governor Ernie Fletcher in 2005. In 2017, Governor Matthew Bevin appointed him to Murray State’s Board of Regents where he chaired both the Audit and Compliance Committee as well as the Athletics Committee. In June 2022, Tharpe became chairperson of the Board—the first African American to hold this position at Murray State—during its centennial year. His tenure saw projects such as opening the National Pan-Hellenic Council Plaza honoring NPHC fraternities and sororities; renovations at several campus facilities; and multiple asset preservation efforts.
In recognition of his service, Murray State University dedicated the Dr. Don I. Tharpe Lecture Hall inside its School of Engineering in 2023.
