The James Madison University Alumni Association presented Arlington Superintendent Dr. Pat Murphy with the College of Education Distinguished Alumni Award at the university’s 2017 Alumni Awards Banquet on Fri, March 17. Dr. Murphy was recognized for his career achievements in education for the past 28 years, since graduating in 1981 from James Madison University with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education.

To celebrate the accomplishments of alumni, the JMU Alumni Association presents awards annually at the Alumni Awards Banquet, during Madison Week (March). The JMU Distinguished Alumni Awards, given by its seven individual colleges, honor JMU alumni who have made exemplary contributions in their particular profession or fields of endeavor and whose accomplishments benefit both society and the campus.

In consideration for this award, the Award Selection Committee was presented with Dr. Murphy’s accomplishments as an educator and his steady leadership as the school division faces unprecedented enrollment. Most notably, the Committee honored Dr. Murphy for his steadfast commitment to ensure that all students achieve academic success and are supported in their individual paths, to recruit and retain a highly-qualified team and for his leadership to consistently improve educational outcomes which have met or exceeded community expectations for all Arlington Public Schools students.

“Leading a school division like Arlington Public Schools has been the highlight of my career and has strengthened my passion and dedication to our students and the profession,” Murphy said. “Through the fundamentals and educational foundation that I attained while attending JMU, I was well-prepared to take on my role as an educator and I have often reflected on the lessons I learned from my JMU professors throughout the past 28 years. I am honored to be recognized for my journey as an educator and grateful for all that JMU offered me to serve in this capacity today.”

Murphy has served as superintendent of Arlington Public Schools since July 1, 2009. Prior to taking the helm in Arlington, Dr. Murphy served in a variety of instructional roles at Fairfax County Public Schools and Winchester Public Schools, starting as a Physical Education teacher, and later becoming an activities director, assistant principal, principal and assistant superintendent for accountability.