MSU 2026 Alumni Award winners announced
The Office of Alumni Relations & Development and the MSU Alumni Association are honored to announce the next class of alumni award honorees.
“Our MSU Alumni Association Board of Directors has the important job of selecting the winners each year,” said Farrah Baldwin (Class of 2001), director of alumni engagement and cultivation. “We’re excited to honor the 2026 Eagles and share their achievements.”
These individuals will be celebrated at Homecoming 2026, which is Oct. 22-24.
Alumni Hall of Fame Inductees
The Alumni Hall of Fame is the highest recognition provided by the Alumni Association, recognizing those who have made a profound collective impact in their profession, community or region.
Richard Crowe (Class of 1967, 1970)
A lifelong educator and community leader, Richard Crowe taught economics and business management for over four decades and held key leadership roles while securing more than 200 grants, including the first for MSU’s nursing program. He served 17 years as chair of the North Fork Valley Community Health Center, expanding care for underserved communities, and contributed to numerous local and national boards. Crowe’s impact as a mentor, author, and advocate has left a lasting mark on his students and the Hazard region.
Brian Davis (Class of 2001)
Brian Davis is an accomplished NASA aerospace engineer who contributed to the first U.S.-crewed mission to orbit since 2011, helping design and validate the Crew Dragon launch abort system. He has worked on Orion spacecraft missions, SAGE III atmospheric science projects, and environmentally responsible aviation initiatives, combining technical excellence and innovation to advance space exploration and sustainable flight.
Steve Leslie (Class of 1983)
Steve Leslie, a Grammy-winning songwriter, musician and educator, has written songs recorded by Kenny Rogers, George Strait, Darius Rucker, and many others. Along with being a seasoned performer, he’s taught songwriting at Belmont University, Middle Tennessee State University and the Berklee College of Music, inspiring the next generation of musicians and songwriters.
Notable Alumni Award
The Notable Alumni Award is provided to a graduate who is excelling in their career field or community.
Brooke Westling (Class of 2002)
Brooke Westling bridges technology and healthcare as a senior developer and instructor in Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at the Mayo Clinic. For over two decades, she has helped develop many critical immunohistochemical, in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence assays that support pathologists and clinical laboratories within the Division of Anatomic Pathology. Westling is driving innovation, efficiency and collaboration in clinical care while mentoring colleagues and advancing healthcare excellence.
Rising Eagle Award
The Rising Eagle Award is given to a graduate of the last 10 years who is demonstrating early career success.
Whittney Allen (Class of 2022)
Whittney Allen serves as the director of foundation marketing and communications for Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH), where she leads storytelling, donor engagement, brand strategy, and marketing for the ARH Foundation for Healthier Communities. A proud Morehead State University nursing graduate, she also holds a B.A. in Communication Studies and a master’s degree in nursing, blending clinical insight with organizational strategy and mission-driven work. Allen was named a Kentucky Colonel by Governor Andy Beshear, volunteers with Natalie’s Sisters, and serves on the Morehead State University Nursing Advisory Council.
Eagle Spirit Award
The Eagle Spirit Award is given to an exceptionally proud Eagle who regularly demonstrates their pride in various ways.
Bill Baldridge (Class of 1968)
A lifelong Eagle, Bill Baldridge has inspired generations as a high school and MSU coach and through his work with Team Focus, a national mentorship program for young men without fathers. Named OVC Coach of the Year in 1986, his leadership and passion for the game left a lasting mark on MSU Athletics. He brought Team Focus’s free summer camp to campus and continues to support the University, leaving a legacy of mentorship and unwavering Eagle pride.
For more about alumni recognition and events, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations & Development at 606-783-2033 or email alumni@moreheadstate.edu.
