Game Changer

Michele Murray, vice president for student development, was honored as one of Washington's Top 20 Business Women of 2015 last week. The recognition was given at the inaugural Washington Women's Conference on Nov. 17. The conference, "Women as Game Changers: Orchestrating Business Success Today and in the Future," was hosted by the Washington Diversity Council in conjunction with the National Women's Council.

A news release from the Washington Diversity Council says that "(Murray and the other honorees) reached the top of their profession and are respected and successful leaders within their organization. They drive change, innovate and inspire others to succeed while contributing to business growth and the strategic direction of the organization."

"Not only is Michele Murray a highly valued member of the university's leadership team," said President Stephen Sundborg, S.J., "but our students could not ask for a more committed leader, advocate and role model. We are grateful for her commitment to Seattle University and join in congratulating her on this well-deserved recognition."

Murray joined Seattle University in July 2006 as assistant vice president for student development and has also served as associate vice president before being named vice president in 2014.

Previously, Murray served as director of leadership and new student programs and assistant director of student activities at Loyola College of Maryland. She received her Ph.D. in Education Policy and Leadership from the University of Maryland, her master's degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from the University of Vermont and a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Rhetoric and Communication Studies from the University of Virginia.

Murray is co-author of two books: Helping College Students Find Purpose: The Campus Guide to Meaning-Making  and Teaching College Students Communication Strategies for Effective Social Justice Advocacy  as well as several book chapters and articles on related topics.