Sharon C. Murphy Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Sharon C. Murphy was born on December 23, 1946. At the age of 2 and a half she was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. In 1972 she graduated from Eastern Montana College (now MSU Billings) with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and in 1979 she completed her master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling. She was very proud of these achievements and her framed diplomas hung on the wall of her apartment. Sharon was employed in the field of rehabilitation for five years. Sharon was a very special lady and had the kind of drive to overcome the physical obstacles she had with a positive attitude. She was an inspiration to those who knew her. Sharon passed away on May 11, 2006, at age 59. This scholarship endowment fund was established in her memory by friends and family to provide scholarship support to students in Rehabilitation Services. The first scholarship was awarded in academic year 2009-2010.
Impact
“I would like to thank you for your generosity of awarding me the Sharon C. Murphy Memorial Endowed Scholarship at Montana State University Billings. The amount of money awarded to me will help me for the school year to come… I believe that working diligently and receiving my degree will guide me into being a better citizen for Billings. I have learned so many skills already that I will use for the rest of my life and I am excited to learn more during and after my college career. Again, I want to thank you so very much for your generosity in choosing me for this scholarship. I appreciate it, and I will continue to work hard for my remaining years at MSUB.” — Shelby P., Human Services and Rehabilitation & Related Services major