Leadership Award established for Craft Academy students

The Morehead State University Foundation is proud to announce the establishment of the Dr. Carol Christian Leadership Award to support leadership and experiential learning opportunities for students enrolled in the Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics.

The award honors Christian’s more than five decades of service to education and her leadership as the inaugural director of the Craft Academy, beginning when it welcomed its first class of students in 2015. Christian joined the faculty at MSU in 2011 and has long served as an advocate for student achievement, access, and opportunity.

Under her leadership, the Craft Academy grew in enrollment and earned recognition throughout Kentucky and nationally. Her commitment to students extended well beyond the classroom, as she worked to remove barriers and connect young people with experiences that strengthened their confidence and leadership and prepared them for successful careers.

This new leadership award supports student participation in conferences, research presentations, study-abroad programs, and other leadership or educational experiences. Recipients will be selected from current Craft Academy students who are in good academic and behavioral standing.

The award was established upon Christian’s retirement in May 2026 through a gift commitment from former MSU colleague and friend Dr. David Barnett (Class of 1975, 1978).

Contributions may be made through the Morehead State University Foundation by going online to https://alumni.moreheadstate.edu/christian.