Patrick Murphy ’67 is part of an elite group that’s been donating to Saint Ignatius High School for 30-plus consecutive years. In fact, just four alumni can make that claim, according to Dan Malone ’00, Director of Annual Fund and Leadership Giving for Saint Ignatius High School.
Murphy has logged 38 consecutive years of giving, almost as many years as he practiced law. But the humble, retired medical malpractice defense attorney hasn’t been counting. It’s just something he does to help future generations get a solid foundation in academics and Christian values.
“Saint Ignatius High School is a great place to grow up and mature,” he says. “When I got to college, I felt like I was ahead in knowing how to study, how to write and how to organize priorities to accomplish my goals.”
“Regular giving by alumni helps the school continue its good work and promote those academics and study skills,” he says.
“The school is a good shepherd of those donations, using them for scholarship funds, offering competitive wages for teachers and maintaining the physical plant.”
While he often specifies scholarship funding for his donations, the University Heights resident also gives to whatever need is greatest.
In addition to donations, Murphy has been volunteering to help with the
Scholarship Drive since he was a student. He’s worked on the alumni council and helped organize class reunions. For his leadership, he received the
Founders’ Award in 1997.
His fond memories include Lumberjack Day and attending varsity games as an underclassman. He enjoyed his history classes and found his typing class handy when computers started to dominate the business world.
Murphy’s son, Michael, graduated from Saint Ignatius High School in 1996. Michael and his twin sisters all attended Jesuit colleges. One of those sisters, Megan McCullough, is starting her third year as a Theology teacher and campus minister at the school.
“My dad is wise, loving, faithful and willing to help people in need,” says McCullough. “He has always shared his talents generously and focuses on the good in everyone he meets. He’s a great role model for my brother, sister and me, and now his grandchildren.”
Murphy believes the mission, values and faith taught at Saint Ignatius are essential to form young men of character who will have a positive impact on the world.
“I like the spirit of Saint Ignatius High School,” says Murphy. “It’s a great institution that deserves alumni support, including financially.”
Malone is impressed by Murphy’s loyalty. “He’s been supporting the school through time and treasure even though he graduated more than 50 years ago. Some years he’s made multiple contributions to different funds. He’s a generous guy. He realizes this is all for the students.”
A gift to the Annual Fund is the most direct way to support our students. To support Saint Ignatius High School by making a gift to the Annual Fund, please visit ignatius.edu/give.