Massachusetts Nonprofit Network Honors Emmaus’ Murphy with Excellence in Leadership Award

Emmaus CEO Jeanine Murphy. (Courtesy photograph.)

Emmaus’ CEO Jeanine Murphy was recently awarded the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network’s 2022 Excellence in Leadership Award.

Murphy, along with more than 120 professionals, was nominated earlier this spring for one of the six Excellence awards. She was then named a finalist and presented the award at Nonprofit Network’s annual award celebration on June 22.

“Our mission of hope embraces the philosophy, ‘there but for the grace of God go you or I,’ Murphy said, while accepting her award during the virtual award ceremony. “This award is the validation of the incredible work being done at Emmaus—changing lives one person at a time.”

The Excellence Award in Leadership, recognizes a senior nonprofit executive who has an extraordinary record of organizational results, exemplifies strategic vision, passion, integrity, innovation, perseverance and a collaborative spirit. This year, the award honors Murphy’s more than two decades of extraordinary leadership and her strategic vision, passion, integrity and innovation. Since opening its first shelter in 1987, Emmaus has served more than 40,000 people.

In recognition of Murphy’s award, Emmaus will receive $500 from Citizens Bank.

Murphy is a resident of Newburyport.

“Jeanine’s passion for, and contributions to, our community and on issues of homelessness are profound,” said Deborah Peckham, president of Emmaus’ Board of Directors.

Murphy’s colleague and Emmaus Chief Operating Officer Leslie Lawrence agreed. “Working side by side with Jeanine for the past 11 years, I have witnessed first-hand her dedication to creating quality programs that support homeless families and individuals in rebuilding their lives,” said Lawrence.  “Her vision and leadership have enabled Emmaus to remain flexible in the face of new challenges, nimbly respond to the evolving needs of those we serve, and ensure Emmaus’ affordable housing legacy well into the future.”

Murphy came to Emmaus after taking a month-long leave of absence from corporate management position to give back to her home community. She began as a volunteer in 1988, helping families secure housing, before being named operations manage and, as of 2001, chief executive officer.

When Murphy first took over as CEO, Emmaus owned five properties and 30 units of permanent affordable housing.  Today, Emmaus owns 17 properties and 99 units of affordable housing. Emmaus has served more than 40,000 men, women and children since opening its first shelter in 1987.

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