Faith & Future
Meet Dr. Kari Murphy, our new Director of Student Services
Could you start by telling us about your educational journey? We heard you recently completed your doctorate—what inspired you to pursue this path, and how has your experience shaped your approach to Student Services?
I am a proud alumna of several universities, and my academic journey has been anything but traditional. I returned to college in my late 20s and earned my BA in History and English from the University of North Georgia. Initially, I set my sights on a career in law. However, my husband—after witnessing my natural connection with students and athletes—lovingly encouraged me to consider a path in education. After some gentle nudging, he persuaded me to apply to graduate school in education alongside law school.
I wasn’t completely sold on the idea at first, so I applied to both and left the decision in God’s hands. Just a few weeks after submitting my application, I was accepted into the University of Georgia’s College of Education. That quick acceptance felt like confirmation, and I knew I was stepping into God’s will. Interestingly, my law school responses didn’t come until months later—long after I had already begun my studies at UGA. That, in itself, was an answer for me.
God has shown me immense grace throughout my journey. I completed my Master of Education at the University of Georgia while working full-time as a history teacher. Pursuing a Ph.D. was always a personal goal—one deeply rooted in my family’s story. My father, a blue-collar worker and veteran, was a man of immense talent and drive, but he never had the opportunity to attend college. His greatest dream was for his children to receive an education. Our final conversation before he passed was me promising him that I would go as far as I could in my academic journey. That promise has guided me ever since. To honor his legacy, I hyphenate my last name on all degrees and publications—ensuring his name is carried alongside mine in every accomplishment. I recently defended my dissertation and graduated with my Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, with a concentration in Administration of Supervision and Curriculum from Auburn University. (Though I’ll always say—Go Dawgs on Saturday!)
As a proud first-generation college student, I am passionate about sharing my story with others—both young and old—to show that regardless of your background or how you start, higher education is within reach, and it’s never too late to pursue your purpose.
How has your previous experience prepared you for the role of Student Services Director?
If there’s one thing I’ve learned throughout my years in education, it’s that you can’t always be prepared for everything—and that’s okay. This mindset has served me well both professionally and personally. Over the years, I’ve had a variety of experiences, inside and outside of education, that have helped me develop a diverse and well-rounded skillset.
Tell us about your family and how they have supported you along the way?
My husband and I have been married for almost 21 years, and we have a 19-year-old son, who is now a college sophomore and plays football for Shorter University. They have been amazing throughout this entire process. Between my undergraduate degree and my terminal degree, I have been in college for roughly the last 10 years, having only taken a year off after my M.Ed., and there was never a time throughout the entire progression that they weren’t helpful or understanding. I did work hard on my end to make sure that any class assignments or obligations would not interfere with family time or our son’s sporting events, but in the rare events that happened, everyone understood. We are a really great team. We always do what it takes to support one another so that we can chase our dreams.
What led you to join our school community?
I had been familiar with Providence through my previous coaching and coming on campus for sporting events. I always had a positive experience with the students and faculty. When this opportunity was presented, it was an easy decision to make to become a member of the Storm family.
What motivated you to join a Christian school setting specifically?
I felt called to serve in a setting where I could combine my professional skills with my faith. Working in a Christian school allows me to mentor and guide students in a way that reflects both academic excellence and Biblical truth. That alignment of calling and career is a big reason I have always been drawn to Christian education.
How does your faith influence your approach to student services and leadership?
My faith shapes my approach to student services and leadership by grounding it in the principles of servant leadership. I believe my role is to serve students, families, and staff in a way that reflects humility, integrity, and care. I see each student as uniquely created and deeply valued, which drives me to support their growth academically, emotionally, and spiritually. My faith also guides my decision-making, keeping me centered on what is right and just, and on building a community marked by grace, accountability, and excellence. Ultimately, I want my leadership to point students toward their God-given potential and to help prepare them to serve others well.
Looking ahead to this school year, what new program or initiatives are you most excited to bring to Student Services? How do you hope these will help nurture our students academically, emotionally, and spiritually?
One of the programs I am excited about is the Gwinnett Tech Pathway program, partnering with the local technical college to allow students to begin earning industry-recognized credentials and hands-on experience in high-demand technical fields while still completing their high school diploma. In addition, there will also be an academic tracking system that will provide clear, individualized pathways for students to meet diploma requirements and pursue postsecondary goals with confidence. These initiatives will help students grow academically through relevant coursework, emotionally by building confidence in their abilities, and spiritually by encouraging them to use their skills and gifts to serve God and others.
Thinking about the future, how do you see Student Services growing and evolving here? What kind of impact do you hope to make while at Providence?
Looking ahead, I envision Student Services growing into an even stronger hub of academic guidance, personal support, and future readiness for every student. I see us expanding to open more doors for students to explore career and college options. The impact I hope to make while I am here is twofold: first, to ensure that students graduate not only with the credentials they need but with the confidence, resilience, and sense of purpose to thrive in whatever path they choose; second, to build systems and programs that will continue to benefits students long after they and I leave our campus. Ultimately, I want Student Services to be a place where everyone, not just students, feels seen, supported, and challenged to become the best versions of themselves, academically, emotionally, and spiritually.