Khristen Murdock: Student, Athlete, Solider

Many students enter college unsure of the path they will eventually choose. But Khristen Murdock, a Bamberg, S.C. native, has always had a clear sense of direction.  She will be among nearly 400 graduates who will receive their degree at Claflin University’s 145th Commencement Convocation set for Saturday, May 9, 11 a.m. at the South Atlantic Seventh-day Adventist Convention Center. 

Murdock was a two-sport athlete at Claflin, competing for four seasons in women’s softball and two in cross country. She will also receive her commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army’s Adjutant General Corps.  Murdock was a member of the Bulldog Battalion of the U.S. Army ROTC, which comprises cadets from Claflin University, South Carolina State University and Voorhees College. Her active duty assignment will be with the Quartermaster Corps, one of three U.S. Army logistics branches.

"I just had to trust myself,” Murdock said. “The most alluring aspect to have is confidence.  I always motivated myself to do all I could do, and be all I could be.”

Murdock’s discipline, hard work and commitment to succeed contributed to her ability to balance a rigorous schedule.  Her accomplishments served as an example for her peers. Murdock has a 3.17 grade point average as biology major with a minor in chemistry.

“As a member of the softball team, Murdock improved each year,” head softball coach Matisse Lee said.  “Her growth was very evident in her junior and senior seasons as she began to come out of her shell.  Being in the ROTC program really helped her develop into a true leader. Murdock is one of those quiet leaders and very respectful.  She doesn’t say much, she just does her job – and she expects her teammates do the same.”

Lee’s assessment of Murdock was shared by Lincoln London, head coach for women’s cross country at Claflin. “In the two years that she has been a part of the team, she has worked hard to improve each day,” said London.  “She has been the recipient of the Coaches’ Award for the past two seasons simply because she does whatever is asked of her without question.”

Leadership, discipline and earning and maintaining respect are assets that are highly-regarded in the military. Bulldog Battalion recruiter Anthony Watson, LTC (R) is confident that Murdock is ready to lead.

 “Cadet Murdock is a soft spoken leader who sets milestones and goals that are attainable through her persistence efforts. I have seen her either meet or exceed the standard.  If she must, she voices her opinion or provides the required direction to her subordinates and allows them to achieve.  She is the type of leader the Army is looking for.”

Other Claflin students being commissioned Thursday include Jasmine Floyd (National Guard Commission Assigned to the Quartermaster Corps), Shellie Golden (Active Duty Adjutant General Corps), and Kasey Wilson (Active Duty Corps of Engineers).