HR 38: Murphy, Mary Kay; lifetime of distinguished service to education and community; commend

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.