Terry Murphy reads to a Gompers Elementary student.

After collecting more than 8,000 books last fall, members of the New Professionals Task Force and staff joined CPA Terry Murphy in delivering books to three Detroit elementary schools and a Hazel Park school over the past three months. Students, including many who do not have books of their own, were delighted with the books.

“The looks on the children’s faces are amazing,” says Nicole Shepard, an MACPA staff member helping deliver the books. “They are excited to see Terry, who is a familiar face to them. And their eyes light up when they realize he is giving them books to keep.”

Terry Murphy and a Gompers Elementary Student showcase some of the donated books.

Murphy, a retired CPA, has been a long time volunteer with the public school system in Detroit assisting staff and reading with and supervising the children. The New Professionals Task Force and MACPA conducted the book drive to celebrate Murphy’s volunteerism.

Murphy’s efforts have also garnered media attention. ABC Affiliate WXYZ-TV Detroit featured Murphy’s visit to Gompers Elementary School in Detroit during newscasts on February 8. A February 9th Detroit Free Press article also featured Murphy’s visit to Gompers.

MACPA Board member Kristine Volk (back row left) and Terry Murphy pose with a class at Gompers Elementary.