Tammy Murray

Registered Occupational Therapist | Worcester Public Schools

Tammy Murray graduated from South High School with few financial resources and the understanding that a college degree could open doors. When her guidance counselor discovered that Quinsigamond Community College offered an occupational therapy program at an affordable price, Tammy’s path was clear.

"For the first time, I loved school and became really excited about learning," she said. Tammy added that the late Nancy Ohan set the stage for her success at QCC. "Nancy’s kind nature helped build my confidence as a young college student. She provided me with an exceptional introduction to the field of occupational therapy. When I received my degree from QCC in 1992, not only was I the first person in my family to earn a college degree, but more important, I had found a career pathway."

After graduation, Tammy worked at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Rhode Island and Prism Healthcare before joining the team at Fairlawn Rehabilitation Hospital in 1993. For the last 15 years, she has worked in the public school system and be-came an adjunct faculty member at Assumption College in 2009.

Receiving a degree from QCC whetted her academic appetite; she earned a Bachelor of Science from Utica College of Syracuse University in 1997. Hungry for more, Tammy earned her master’s from Cambridge College in 2007 and achieved the pinnacle when she received her doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Temple University in 2012.

QCC was the starting point for her. "The College was my first higher education opportunity. It’s where I received a solid academic foundation through small class sizes, individualized attention and academic supports," she said, noting the challenges she overcame along the way. "At QCC, students gain the relevant skills that will allow them upward economic and educational mobility with jobs and careers that are valued and needed in the region."