Patrick Murphy, a Philadelphia native and the first Iraq War veteran elected to the U.S. Congress, visited the University on Oct. 2. Murphy represented the Eighth Congressional District of Pennsylvania from 2007-11.
He later served as the 32nd Under Secretary of the Army (2016-17) under former U.S. President Barack Obama.
He is currently a member of the faculty at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton Business School and has also taught courses at Widener University and the U.S. Military Academy.
Murphy met with several classes and student groups during his visit to SFU earlier this month.
“It was amazing to have someone like that come and talk to us,” said sophomore Criminal Justice major and ROTC cadet Keshawn McNeill.
Sophomore ROTC cadet Connor Flaig agreed.
“It was great hearing his insight on our questions,” said Flaig.
Murphy shared information about his experiences working in national security during his visit, while also talking about his role during his service time in Iraq. He served in the Army from 1996-2004.
In addition to serving on the faculty at the Wharton School, Murphy is also an entrepreneur who helps veterans find jobs and secure quality health care and mental health services.
“It was inspiring, honestly,” said Flaig about Murphy’s visit. “I am blessed to have an opportunity like that.”
