Mr. Murphy ’98 returns to Belmont Hill for the third time, teaching math and coaching soccer. He first joined the Belmont Hill community as a Form III student, graduating in the Class of 1998. During his time at Belmont Hill, he was a peer leader, a member of SADD, an organizer of the flower drive, and played soccer, basketball, and track. He then went on to Boston College, where he acquired a degree in Economics, before becoming a retail buyer for the next five years. In 2006, Mr. Murphy ’98 began his teaching career, joining Belmont Hill as a math teacher. Over the next fifteen years, he taught various levels of mathematics, served as Assistant Athletic Director, and headed the Middle School while Mrs. Hamilton was on sabbatical. When the current seniors were rising eighth graders (in 2021), Mr. Murphy ’98 departed for Catholic Memorial, serving in the Admissions office as the director of Financial Aid. After four years there, we welcome him back to the Hill.
When describing his relationship with Belmont Hill, Mr. Murphy ’98 firmly believes in the adage: “If you find a job that you love, you never work a day in your life.” In his experiences as a student and a faculty member, this proverb has led him to enjoy his work daily. Another core element of his deep connection to the school is the community, specifically the people: “It’s…the kids. That’s what makes this job fun.” Mr. Murphy ’98 also mentioned his deep connection with beloved Belmont Hill teacher and administrator Mr. Cliff Goodband, who was his youth soccer and baseball coach and introduced him to Belmont Hill. When deciding to go into education, Mr. Goodband suggested teaching at Belmont Hill, and they served for several years together in the athletics department. When remarking about Mr. Goodband, Mr. Murphy ’98 described him as “tough and caring, which is what makes Belmont Hill special.”
In addition to his deep love of education, Mr. Murphy ’98 also exhibits a passion for the long-standing traditions of Belmont Hill, expressing his wish to follow in the footsteps of the great teachers and mentors before him, citing the wall of teachers in MacPherson. He recounts, “That’s why I became a teacher, when I think of some of those men and women who have been here before.”
With his deep love of teaching and dedication to the community, Mr. Murphy ’98 is sure to have a significant impact on the students and teachers at Belmont Hill. The Panel welcomes Mr. Murphy ’98, looking forward to his presence in the community.