House Resolution 38
By: Representatives Hilton of the 48th, Beckles of the 96th, Reeves of the 99th, Efstration of
the 104th, Martinez of the 111th, and others
A RESOLUTION
Honoring Mary Kay Murphy for a lifetime of distinguished service to education and
community; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, Mary Kay Murphy has dedicated her life to the pursuit of excellence in
education, earning a PhD in education administration from Georgia State University, a
master's degree in education and English from Emory University, and a Bachelor of Arts in
English and philosophy from Loretto Heights College; and
WHEREAS, Mary Kay Murphy has exemplified an outstanding commitment to the teaching
profession, with seven years of experience as a public-school teacher in Georgia and
California, inspiring students in grades 9 through 12; and
WHEREAS, she has played a pivotal role in the advancement of educational institutions
through her extraordinary career in private fundraising, securing over $475 million in support
of academic programs, faculty research, and campus infrastructure, thereby enhancing
educational opportunities for countless students; and
WHEREAS, Mary Kay Murphy has shown exemplary dedication to her community, serving
as a volunteer teacher at Hopewell Baptist Church, a longtime member of Mary Our Queen
Catholic Church, and as President of the Kiwanis Club of Atlanta, becoming the first woman
to hold that office in 80 years; and
WHEREAS, her leadership has significantly impacted public education as an elected member
of the Gwinnett County School Board for over two decades, during which time she was
elected chairman five times and vice chairman five times, ensuring the continued growth and
success of the district; and
WHEREAS, Mary Kay Murphy has extended her service beyond education, contributing as
a civilian representative to the National Security Seminar at the United States Army War
College and as a member of numerous civic organizations, including Leadership Atlanta and
the Development Committee of the Catholic Archdiocese of Atlanta; and
WHEREAS, her exceptional contributions have been recognized through numerous
prestigious awards, including the Scott Hudgens Distinguished Citizen Award, Paul Duke
Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Award for Service
in Public Education; and
WHEREAS, Mary Kay Murphy alongside her husband, Michael C. Murphy, a distinguished
retired attorney and civic leader, has raised three daughters and is a proud grandparent of
two, further demonstrating her dedication to family and community; and
WHEREAS, Mary Kay Murphy's lifetime of unwavering commitment to education, civic
leadership, and community service will leave a lasting legacy, and she stands as a beacon of
inspiration for future generations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body honor Mary Kay Murphy for her lifetime commitment to education
and community service as well as extend the most sincere best wishes for continued health
and happiness.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Mary
Kay Murphy.