Tommy Murray is the new program director of New Horizons Crisis Center’s Southwest Minnesota State University program. He plans to be a presence in the Social Science building two to three days a week. He will be splitting his time between campus and the main office, where he also works as the new program director of the NHCC Crisis Nursery.

Due to drastic budget cuts in 2012, NHCC has been forced to combine many positions. Coverage of the SMSU campus office has been spotty in the past.

Murray said he looks forward to getting to know the campus community.

“Even though it’s a small area, I’m still working on getting to know my way around,” he said. “I’m glad to be working here and I’m glad there’s an office on campus.”

Previously, Murray has worked in Emporia, Kan., as a children’s case manager at a mental health center. He has also worked with foster care programs and adoption agencies. Murray graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Superior where he worked for a domestic abuse shelter and home for people with traumatic brain injuries.

Although Murray understands that rural areas face unique challenges such as greater isolation from resources, he is ready to step up. His agenda for on-campus events is already filling up.

He is going to be hosting a meet-and-greet at his office in SS 227 on Feb. 21 from two to four p.m. to meet SMSU students, staff, and faculty.

He is hoping to fill a work study position with the campus club Mustang Men Against Domestic Violence. The position would involve a variety of outreach activities related to prevention and awareness of domestic violence.

Looking ahead to April, Murray is also hoping to work with other clubs and organizations to plan events for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

“As with any new job,” said Murray, “there’s still a lot I have to learn.”