FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Friends of Fairfield Athletics joined forces with Kathleen Murphy '84 on Thursday, November 10, 2016 at the Quick Center on campus. Ms. Murphy, President of Personal Investing for Fidelity Investments met with student-athletes representing various women's programs prior to the annual Dolan Lecture Series. The informal Q & A provided student-athletes with the opportunity to discuss various topics featuring women in the workplace, personal finance, professional advancement and investing.

“I really enjoyed my time at Fairfield” shared Ms. Murphy. “There is something special about the community here. Take full advantage of the opportunities while you are on campus. The Jesuit values instilled here have kept me grounded throughout my career.”

Ms. Murphy, a 25- year industry veteran, oversees a business with more than $1.9 trillion in client assets under administration, more than 17 million customer accounts and over 15,000 employees, serving the broad financial services needs of Americans at every life stage. Murphy received her bachelors of arts degree, summa cum laude, in economics and political science from Fairfield University in 1984, she earned her Juris Doctorate with highest honors from the University of Connecticut in 1987 and has repeatedly been name one of the “50 Most Powerful Women in American Business” by Fortune magazine, one of the “Wall Street Top 50” and “Business by 100” by Irish America magazine and named as one of the “25 Most Powerful Women in Finance” by US Banker, among other honors.

Prior to the main event, Murphy met with student-athletes and shared the following advice:

“You have choices. Where possible, do things that excite you as opposed to where you can make the most money at your first job.  It's important to have passion about what you do.

Using a sports analogy, what I realized early in my career is that the top of the house cares 'how many points are on the score board'. If you do your job well and you contribute to the team, then they want you on your team.

Many people overlook the importance of a positive attitude, hard work and focus on results. Dive in, learn, and make the most of each opportunity.  Do a great job and always have a positive attitude.  That is what will get you noticed.

The concept of “team” is really important.  Ultimately, to be a good leader, you also need to be a good team player.  Be positive, have a good attitude and be passionate about your work.”

Ms. Murphy also offered vital financial advice to women: “Learn the basics of investing, in addition to saving, and take control of your financial future.  90% of women will be the sole decision maker on finances due to divorce, death of your spouse or staying single.  It's crucial to start early.  Once you join an employer, make sure you contribute to any 401k offered.  And do not leave free money on the table – if your employer matches a portion of your 401K contribution – make sure you at least contribute to that max.”

Before the Q&A session ended, Ms. Murphy shared one last piece of valuable information aimed at young professionals apprising for personal and professional success: “Your brand is what you do every single day.  Nothing is more important than your reputation and your brand … and it must be rooted in integrity and ethical behavior.  The education and the Jesuit values you receive at Fairfield University can help you develop your personal brand. If you take shortcuts or do things where your integrity is questioned, that becomes your brand. Live the ideals of Fairfield University as you move forward and you'll be very proud of what you accomplish”.

To view photos from the event, please click here. For more information about the Friends of Fairfield Athletics, email Jhanay Harris jharris@fairfield.edu or call (203)254-4000, ext. 2406.