Jim Carter, Murray State University’s vice president for institutional advancement, was recently elected to the International Entertainment Buyers Association Board of Directors. IEBA is a non-profit trade organization for talent buyers, concert promoters and professionals in the entertainment industry. "IEBA is very grateful to have Jim on the board of directors. His vast knowledge and years of experience will be critical in furthering IEBA's goals of educating and fostering the next generation of buyers and promoters. We look forward to continuing a close working relationship with Murray State University and its talented students," said Tiffany Davis, IEBA executive director.

Davis said Carter was recommended by the nominating committee, which comprises IEBA board members and other non-board members for the final slate of nominees. The slate of nominees is sent to all IEBA members for their final vote. There were eight nominees in Carter's category (buyer/promoter), and only five were elected. “IEBA awarded $9,000 in scholarships to music business students last year and there is potential to grow the scholarship endowments and keep MSU students in the forefront of these opportunities as well,” he said.

“My interest is to build the connection MSU has and further the opportunities for all students who have an interest in working in the entertainment industry,” Carter said. The university and the staff at the Regional Special Events Center and Lovett Auditorium have been involved with IEBA for several years, Carter said. Music business students have been given opportunities to work at conferences and premier entertainment events. This involvement will also help Murray State students to network with other universities with entertainment connections.

“In addition to scholarships, I hope to work with the board in linking with more universities that have a vibrant entertainment series,” Carter said. “For universities that are active talent buyers, the IEBA annual conference is a must to be in the forefront of this constantly changing business.” Providing networking and educational opportunities, the IEBA fosters growths and increases revenue for the live entertainment industry. IEBA is also known for showcasing talent in all genres and exposing buyers to fresh acts with huge impact.

Carter said it was an honor to have been selected to the IEBA Board. “The IEBA board members represent the premier talent agencies, venues and entertainment support services and I am excited to be a part of this elite group.”

Carter received his Bachelors of Science in Journalism in 1979 and Master of Science in Communications in 1986 from Murray State University. He previously served as Director of Student Activities at Murray State from 1981 – 1986 and Director of the Curris Center from 1986 –1989. During that time he was active in the National Association for Campus Activities and served twice as the Host Coordinator for NACA’s Contemporary Concert Production and Promotion Workshop in Nashville.

Carter has held the position of Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Murray State University since the fall of 2000. In his role he oversees the Development, Alumni Affairs, Marketing and Public Relations, a 100,000-watt NPR station and university broadcast media areas. In addition, the Regional Special Events Center and Lovett Auditorium, 8,600-seat and 2,200-seat venues respectively, are also under his direction. He is a member of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education as well as the Country Music Association. Carter also hosts the university's weekly video news magazine program, Roundabout U, which is broadcast from the studios of MSU TV 11 and shown weekly on Kentucky Educational Television. For more information on IEBA, you can visit their website at: www.ieba.org.