Philley Endowment honors MSU retirees

The MSU Foundation has announced that the Dr. John and Betty Philley Endowment Fund is now fully funded at the $25,000 level. Initially created in 2021 as a memorial fund when Dr. John Philley passed away, it has grown to reach the endowment level and will be invested indefinitely.

Dr. Philley became Morehead State's first full-time geology and physical sciences instructor in 1960 and later established the school's degree programs for geology and environmental science. He retired from MSU in 1997 as executive vice president of academic affairs and dean of the faculty. The fund also honors the Philley matriarch, Betty Philley, who now resides in Louisville. She was also a long-time MSU employee, serving as an administrative assistant for over 20 years, working in the Office of the President at the time of her retirement. She was a founding sponsor of Delta Gamma sorority at MSU.

"Morehead State University has been an important part of our family's story, and we are honored to create this endowment fund in our parent's names," said Dave Philley (Class of 1983). "MSU is a special place, and we are honored to leave a lasting legacy through this special endowment fund."

The investment proceeds from the fund will aid with general operating support and the greatest needs of the geology program.

"The Philley family made an indelible impact on Morehead State University through their decades of service," said Allison Caudill (Class of 2005, 2009), executive director of Alumni Relations and Development. "Having an endowment that supports the geology program, a program established by the fund's namesake, allows us to promote the history of the program while also supporting the future of the program. We are honored that the Philley family chose to make an impact on future generations."

For more information on the Philley Endowment or to learn more about how to create a fund with the MSU Foundation, please email giving@moreheadstate.edu or call 603-783-2033.