A new investment in the future of agriculture and ranching through the Dillard College of Business Administration at Midwestern State University will serve as a leading resource and catalyst for promoting both economic viability and environmental stewardship through collaborative research, education, and innovative agribusiness solutions.

To establish a strong foundation for long-term success, Laura and Diaz Murray have made a generous commitment of $2.5 million to the Midwestern State University Foundation, Inc., for the benefit of the University and the establishment of the Center for Farm, Ranch & Rangeland Management. The center is dedicated to enhancing the economic profitability and financial viability of production agriculture. It will also foster healthy rangeland ecosystems through practical, research-based knowledge and support that emphasize hands-on application, enabling students to learn and implement best practices.

In recognition of the Murrays’ generosity, the Texas Tech University System Board of Regents approved the naming of the Diaz W. Murray Center for Farm, Ranch & Rangeland Management at its August meeting.

"We are fortunate to have friends and community members who recognize the transformative influence of higher education and believe deeply in the mission of Midwestern State University. The generosity of supporters like Laura and Diaz Murray strengthens our ability to serve students, advance knowledge, and create opportunities that benefit our entire region for generations to come,” said MSU Texas President Stacia Haynie.

Key focus areas of the Murray Center include:

• Advancing sustainable beef cattle production practices,
• Promoting healthy and productive rangeland management,
• Conducting and supporting collaborative agricultural research,
• Delivering research-based education and outreach programs,
• Encouraging agribusiness innovation and economic resilience, and
• Supporting the long-term continuity and success of ranching enterprises in North Texas and southern Oklahoma.

"The Murray Center represents a significant commitment to the future of ranching and natural resource stewardship business practices in our region," said Robert Forrester, Dean of the Dillard College of Business Administration. “Through partnerships with producers, researchers, educators, and industry leaders, the Murray Center will work to strengthen the region's agricultural economy while ensuring responsible stewardship of the land and resources that sustain it.”

The new center complements the agribusiness concentration that has gained significant momentum over the past decade. Students interested in the new business concentration may begin taking classes as early as this fall.