Unlocking Educational Opportunities for Chicago area Youth

Empowering 8th graders with financial need to access college-prep high schools and achieve their dreams.

Join us June 1st at the 37th Annual DMSF Golf Classic! Learn more here.

Advancing Educational Equity, One Scholar at a Time

We envision a world in which every student has access to a high-quality education and the support they need to succeed in life, regardless of financial means.​

The mission of the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund (DMSF) is to unlock educational opportunities for talented Chicago-area students facing financial need. DMSF partners with Scholars, families, and schools through high school and beyond by providing scholarships, academic programs, and personal support so that each Scholar can reach their potential.

DMSF is Changing Lives

Murphy Scholars currently enrolled.

%

of Murphy Scholars who graduate high school on time.

partner high schools in Chicago and across the country.

%

of Murphy Scholars have graduated, or are on track to graduate, with a Bachelor’s degree within six years.

Our Impact – Building a Better Future for Local Youth

DMSF helps Chicago and Lake County students overcome educational challenges by providing scholarships, academic programs, and personal support to prepare them for college and beyond. DMSF is committed to guiding students toward a successful future despite the obstacles they face.

Our Programs – Building Pathways to Success

We offer a range of programs that support our Scholars from before high school through college graduation, including academic support, mentorship, leadership development, and college counseling. Our goal is to ensure Scholars graduate high school, gain college admission, and are prepared for long-term success.

Celebrating Every Scholars’ Growth

At DMSF, we are proud of our Murphy Alumni who have gone on to achieve remarkable success in various fields. The Murphy Alumni Network is a testament to the enduring impact of DMSF’s support, providing a platform for networking, mentorship, and giving back. From college graduates to industry leaders, they exemplify the transformative power of education and the resilience to overcome challenges.

Meet Jorge

"DMSF opened a world of privilege and opportunity previously believed to be unavailable to us."

Meet Yan

"One of the most valuable experiences I've had in my life was a chance to make friends for life with fellow Murphy Scholars from all over the city of Chicago, who came from very different backgrounds from mine."

Meet Aisha Smith

"DMSF reinforced my belief in myself and supported my potential in a way I truly needed and will always appreciate. The organization has a deep commitment to ensuring kids grow up in safe school environments and understands how crucial that is."

Guided Through High School, Destined

for Greatness in College

DMSF equips Scholars with personalized college counseling and guidance, helping them navigate their options and select the best-fit college where they can thrive academically and personally, setting the stage for lifelong success. Murphy Alumni currently attend the following colleges and universities:

What’s Happening at DMSF

Breaking Barriers: Why Students Need More Than Financial Aid

It starts with opportunity but it doesn’t end there. Access to scholarships to attend a rigorous college-prep high school is just the first step....

Abigail Chaheine’s Journey from Caddying to College

We recently sat down with Abigail, a Murphy Scholar at Trinity High School from Cicero, to talk about her experiences as a Murphy Scholar, her...

Javaris Pratt’s Journey from Summer Bridge to Success

When Javaris first learned about the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund (DMSF), he didn’t realize how much it would shape his future. What began as a...

DMSF Appoints Rocky Lopez as First Murphy Alum Chair, Marking Historic Leadership Milestone

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact InformationDaniel Murphy Scholarship FundJessica AyalaDirector of Marketing & Communications(312)...

36th Annual DMSF Golf Classic Raises Record-Breaking $3.19 Million for Murphy Scholars

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJune 6, 2025 36th Annual DMSF Golf Classic Raises Record-Breaking $3.19 Million for Murphy Scholars Record-Breaking Event Draws...

Xiomara Contreras, ’13 Murphy Alumna, Concord Academy, and Cindy Hallums, DMSF CEO, at ABC TV

Watch an interview with Xiomara Contreras, a 2013 graduate of Murphy High School and alumna of Concord Academy, alongside Cindy Hallums, CEO of the...

Aisha Smith’s Journey from Learner to Lawyer

Aisha's journey from the vibrant neighborhoods of Harvey and Markham to her current role as a lawyer and member of the DMSF Board of Directors...

A Leadership Journey: Q&A with Eugene Terrell, Schmidt Scholar and Community Leader

At DMSF, we take great pride in fostering leadership skills among our Scholars, helping them grow into thoughtful, impactful individuals. As a...

DMSF Celebrates 35 Years of Murphy Scholars and Raises Over $1.65M at the Ignite Potential Gala

Chicago, IL – The Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund (DMSF) marked a significant milestone with the 35th Anniversary Ignite Potential Gala,...

Steve Elkins is a Finalist in the 2024 Invest in Others Awards

Chicago Financial Advisor Earns National Recognition for Philanthropy Steve Elkins is a Finalist in the 2024 Invest in Others Awards Chicago,...

DMSF’s First-Ever Project Prom

Jamia Jackson, Manager of Education at DMSF and a Murphy Alumna (Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School, Class of ‘16), joined DMSF not even a year...

The Impact of the Murphy Caddie Program | A Q&A with Murphy & Evans Alums Jacqueline Fernandez and Robert Gonzalez

The Impact of the Murphy Caddie Program | A Q&A with Murphy & Evans Alums Jacqueline Fernandez and Robert Gonzalez 5/3/2024 Get ready to...

Daniel Murphy: A Legacy of Education and Service

Daniel Murphy: A Legacy of Education and Service4/8/2024 ​In Highland Park, Illinois, one man’s legacy continues to impact generations. Daniel...

What Does It Mean to Be a Murphy Scholar?

"Using my gifts to serve and improve the world I live in. Also, to be part of the Murphy family has been such a HUGE part of my post-school life....

Meet Jorge

Q: ​What is your first and last name?A:Jorge Silva. Q: ​What is your high school graduation year?A:2008. Q: ​Which high school did...

Make a difference today! Your support can transform lives. Join us in empowering the next generation of leaders and making a lasting impact on our community.