Laurel Curtis Wood

Dr. Michael Hail, professor of political science at Morehead State, passed away Aug. 6, 2020, at
only 53 years old. Hail came to MSU in 2000 as director of research and assistant dean of the
newly created Program of Distinction, the Institute for Regional Analysis and Public Policy
(IRAPP). Dr. Hail subsequently served as Dean of IRAPP, and Chair of IRAPP. He directed both
the Government and MPA graduate programs. He also worked with the UK Martin School of
Public Policy on a joint doctorate of Public Policy program, and since 2004 as the associate director
of the Institute for Federalism and Intergovernmental Relationships. He founded, directed, and
obtained external funding for the MSU Statesmanship Center, and the MSU Intelligence
Community Center for Academic Excellence.

As a Professor, he was instrumental in the creation of the Masters of Public Administration degree,
and taught and mentored many students on to successful careers. He obtained grants, and helped
other faculty obtain grants, for millions of dollars each year, to fund both research and service. He
successfully obtained funding from HUD, Department of Homeland Security, Defense Intelligence
Agency, Rural Telecommunications Policy Institute, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA). His tireless work was vital for providing substantial initial investment of
federal dollars to start the MSU Space Science Center. He constantly worked to recruit, hire, and
mentor faculty to be successful teachers, scholars, and grantsman.

Dr. Hail was appointed to the Truman Scholarship committee by both President Obama and
President Trump. He was a prolific scholar, publishing articles, books, and book chapters, as well
as taking leadership roles in various scholarly organizations. He had leadership roles with the
American Political Science Association, American Society for Public Administration, Southern
Political Science Association, and Kentucky Political Science Association. He served as editor or
editorial board member for PUBLIUS: The Journal of Federalism, Commonwealth Political
Science Review, Public Administration Review, and The Federalism Report. His outstanding
scholarship and grantsmanship were recognized with scholarly awards. His classroom teaching
style and curriculum development work has been recognized with teaching awards. He worked
tirelessly to help students find jobs and internships in government and the private sector. His legacy
will live on through the amazing students whom he helped teach and mentor who themselves went
on to outstanding futures.