MSU celebrates Mast's retirement with scholarship
Morehead State University is honored to recognize Russ Mast, vice president for student affairs, as he prepares to retire after nearly 10 years of dedicated service to MSU and an impressive career in higher education.
Throughout his 38-year career, he has served in multiple roles, including director of campus recreation, director of student activities, assistant dean of students, dean of students, acting vice president, and twice as vice president for student affairs, both at Valdosta State University and MSU. He has also contributed nationally through presentations at NIRSA, NASPA, and ACUI conferences and served on multiple SACSCOC reaffirmation committees.
Since joining MSU in 2016, Mast has overseen a broad portfolio dedicated to student success, including Athletics, MSU Police, Disability Services, Enrollment Management, Financial Aid, Housing, Recreation & Wellness, Student Engagement, and the Dean of Students. His leadership has shaped the Eagle student experience. Mast has been a tireless advocate for students, serving as advisor to the Student Government Association and championing programs that enhance student life.
"Russ has always been a champion for students. His dedication to listening, supporting, and advocating for us has shaped the student experience at MSU in countless ways," said Thomas Clem, president of the Student Government Association.
Mast's commitment to students extended beyond his professional duties. A consistent and faithful donor, his cumulative giving to MSU exceeds $30,000. His cumulative contributions during his nine-year tenure rank him among the top employee donors in the MSU Foundation's history.
"I believe it is important to show that you are invested in the success of the University, and more importantly, the students," Mast said. "I hope my contributions have had a positive impact and create opportunities for students to grow and learn in a compassionate and supportive community."
"Russ has led by example, not only through his service but through his generosity. His personal commitment to giving has inspired others and strengthened our mission to support students," said Allison Caudill (Class of 2005, 2009), CEO of the MSU Foundation. "We are grateful for his leadership and the lasting impact of his contributions."
In recognition of his service, the Student Government Association conducted a surprise fundraising campaign. The generosity of students, alumni, colleagues, friends and family helped establish the Russell Mast SGA Scholarship Endowment. With additional support from MSU's dining partner, Aramark, the fund now stands at $33,000 and will continue his legacy of supporting student leadership and engagement for generations to come.
"I was moved deeply," Mast said. "In my wildest dreams, I never thought that a scholarship would be created in my name. It's nice to know that I made an impact while at MSU."
Originally from Kokomo, Indiana, Mast played collegiate tennis at Vincennes University before transferring to Eastern Kentucky University, where he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees and met his wife, Mary. Throughout his career, he has been honored for his contributions, including receiving the Outstanding Alumni Award from EKU's College of Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Athletics in 1997. He has also served as director of human resources for the Georgia Special Olympics Games and chaired the Valdosta-Lowndes County Parks & Recreation Authority for seven years.
Although Mast did not graduate from MSU, he invested his time and made himself a visible presence on campus upon his arrival. For the past 10 years at MSU, he has regularly attended athletic events. He and Tim Rhodes (Class of 1976, 1987), former assistant vice president for enrollment services, enjoyed cooking for alumni, students, faculty, staff and Board of Regents members at home football games. He is also a proud parent of an Eagle; his youngest son, Andrew Mast (Class of 2020), is an MSU graduate.
Russ and Mary plan to remain active supporters of the University and its mission. Mast will officially retire at the end of 2025 and relocate to South Georgia to spend more time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Mast said the most fulfilling part of his time at MSU was watching students grow in leadership positions throughout campus. He said that after belonging to an institution that made him feel like family, he hopes his scholarship will allow more students to experience that same feeling and realize their potential.
"I hope it supports student leaders who understand and appreciate how important their voice is," Mast said. "Students are the most important part of MSU. Sko Eags!"
To learn more about student life at Morehead State, call 606-783-2071.
For more information on this scholarship or how to create your own, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations & Development at 606-783-2033 or email giving@moreheadstate.edu.
Last year, nearly 700 scholarships totaling $1 million were awarded through the MSU Foundation. These scholarships were established by generous alumni and donors who are deeply committed to Morehead State University and its students.
To learn more about scholarships at Morehead State, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/scholarships.
Photo: MSU President Dr. Jay Morgan (left) and Director of Athletics Kelly Wells (Class of 1996, right) honored Vice President for Student Affairs Russ Mast at a recent MSU Basketball game with the Russell Mast SGA Scholarship Endowment.
