MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — New statewide higher-education actions approved by the Tennessee Board of Regents include developments that directly impact both Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro and Motlow State Community College, which serves Smyrna and Rutherford County residents with their campus that sits directly off of Sam Ridley Parkway. Among the major local highlights, MTSU is moving forward with a significant new parking infrastructure project as part of over $124 million in construction contracts approved across the TBR system between August and October 2025. The project includes a new parking structure at MTSU valued at more than $4 million, aimed at improving campus access and supporting continued enrollment growth.

Motlow State Community College also saw several key developments highlighted in the quarterly materials. In FY2025 fundraising, Motlow raised $337,204 in private gifts and donations in support of student programs and operations. Additionally, Motlow’s foundation endowment reached approximately $12.47 million, placing it among the stronger endowments in the Tennessee community college system. These endowment dollars help fund scholarships, instructional resources, and long-term student success initiatives.

In recognition of long-term service and academic impact, four Motlow faculty members were also nominated and approved for Faculty Emeritus status: Charle Coffey (Geography), Lucy Craig (Criminal Justice), Charoline Simmons (Reading), and Debra Simpson (Education). Their combined service to students spans more than three decades and reflects Motlow’s deep educational footprint across southern middle Tennessee, including Rutherford, Coffee, and surrounding counties.

Board materials also confirmed workforce and operational updates with local ties. A new internal audit director previously employed at MTSU transitioned to Motlow State, strengthening oversight and compliance operations at the Smyrna-area campus. These initiatives reflect continued investment in accountability, campus safety, and student support across Rutherford County’s higher-education institutions.

Read more details and see the agenda of the upcoming meeting HERE.