"Ms. Murphy transformed my life. She built up my self-esteem and believed in me until I believed in myself." - Michael Nguyen, AHF President
Since 2006, Atlantic Housing Foundation has awarded more than $9 million dollars in academic and housing scholarships to hundreds of students across the country. AHF is proud of every scholarship awarded to these deserving students enrolled in two-year, four-year and vocational programs. However, one scholarship awarded each spring particularly represents the organization's core values and the tremendous impact that educators can have on the lives of their students.
The Sharon Murphy Excellence in Education scholarship was established to honor long-time Grand Prairie educator, Sharon Murphy. As a young student, Ms. Murphy struggled with a learning difference, called dyslexia, which required her to work harder than other students to maintain her GPA. Her school experience fostered a special compassion within her and motivated her to become a teacher.
"Teaching kids is like having a key for each child because they are so unique," Murphy explained. "It was challenging to know how to unlock their potential. The keys felt a little heavy at times but I always prayed to do the right thing and listened to each of them."
Murphy taught art at both the middle school and high school where AHF President, Michael Nguyen attended. As with all of her students, Murphy built a friendship with Nguyen and encouraged him to reach his potential.
"She paid particular attention to me when I immigrated to the US," Nguyen said. "I spoke very little English but Ms. Murphy's commitment to me, as well as numerous other students and their development, prompted us to name one of our first scholarships in her honor."
As an organization, AHF works to support students who will continue Ms. Murphy's passion for service, excellence and investment in others. Each spring, two students pursuing degrees in education are awarded $20,000 scholarships ($2,500 every semester for eight semesters) through the Murphy scholarship as well as the Sharon Whaley scholarship - named in honor of long-time teacher and wife of current board member, Rich Whaley. These scholarships are just one way AHF works to make a difference and transform communities.
In addition to the Sharon Murphy and Sharon Whaley scholarships for educators, AHF also awards the Bart Marantz Legacy scholarship as well as academic and housing scholarships every fall and spring. Academic scholarships are open to both full-time and part-time students enrolled at an accredited university or technical school program such as cosmetology, bookkeeping, welding or real estate licensing.
The deadline to apply for the spring 2022 awards is October 31, 2021. Visit our website for more information.
