Ross Murray ’00, ’09, and his husband, Richard Garnett ’07, ’09, share a unique bond as both double alumni of Augsburg University. Ross graduated with a degree in Youth and Family Ministry, while Richard graduated with a degree in computer science. Together, they completed their MBA in 2009. “We decided that going to graduate school would be a good couples-building activity,” Ross joked. Today, that shared Augsburg foundation continues to shape their lives in meaningful ways—evident in Ross’s recognition as one of Augsburg’s 2025 Distinguished Alumni.
His impressive career centers on faith and advocacy, as he is both an ordained deacon and Vice President of the GLAAD Media Institute. When reflecting on what this recognition means to him, Ross shared, “It’s a huge honor to be in the company of others who have built these social enterprises that are supporting their community. It’s truly amazing.” His national leadership and reputation can be traced back to his formative years at Augsburg.
While attending community college, Ross was part of an honor society that helped students gain admission to four-year institutions, and Augsburg seemed like a good fit. “Augsburg was really good with how they treated transfer students and accepted credits from other places,” Ross shared. Experiences with Campus Ministry and service learning opportunities began shaping his pathway of faith and advocacy. “Working with people in the community allowed me to put myself in scenarios where I’m connecting with people from all walks of life,” he reflected. Attending Augsburg also gave Ross the chance to embrace himself. “I used my move to Minneapolis and Augsburg as a way to begin showing up authentically,” he shared. Reconciling his Christian faith and gay identity empowered him to pursue a vocation grounded in integrity and service.
The values Ross cultivated at Augsburg not only informed his career choices, but also inform philanthropic causes he and his husband choose to support. “Richard and I ask ourselves what institutions can help society build a better future and be a leader in that effort—and this is where Augsburg becomes especially important,” Ross shared as he reflected on the state of higher education. “It’s in a unique position to have a sincere religious conviction while also ensuring outreach is as inclusive as possible.” He noted the growing Somali population and programs like StepUP, which help students in recovery, and Augsburg Family Scholars, which provides support for students who have experienced the foster care system. “This is why unrestricted giving is so beneficial,” Richard added. “We trust the university to deploy our gifts to the areas of greatest need. Augsburg has done a lot to help elevate people who might need a little extra support.”
Ross and Richard continue to see the unlimited potential of current and future Auggies. “Augsburg has always been a place that has fostered connection and dialogue as a way to confront challenges and build bridges,” Ross said. “If we could provide one message to students, it would be to be the advocates and leaders they wish to see in the world,” Richard added. Just as Augsburg shaped their journeys, Ross and Richard now model what it means to live out a life of authenticity, advocacy, and service.
Join Ross, Richard, and others in making a gift for Give to the Max Day between now and November 20 to help advance Augsburg’s mission and continue their legacy of giving back. Generosity helps unlock the potential of current and future Auggies!