Marty Murray, Jr.
Project Manager
Centene78th
Chairman
Legislative District Committee
Chicago
Decatur Eisenhower High, IL
SIU Carbondale, BS, Business Management
University of Missouri Columbia – Executive MBA
RBC Young Professionals
Project Management Institute – STL Metro Chapter
In short, what do you do? (Please provide details for your roles at Centene/as an elected official.)
I manage clinical programs that reach throughout our enterprise. The programs all have aims to increase the quality of life for our member clients. It’s beautiful to see the impact of the programs to the everyday person; through their respective health plan. I have been elected in several roles throughout the state party. It is my responsibility to ensure my constituents are informed and engaged in the political process.
What is the most valuable professional lesson you’ve learned, to date?
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is moving with purpose. It doesn’t matter whether it is purpose in public service, purpose in professional development, or purpose in academic growth. It is essential to firmly understand the daily actions you take. Those actions end up becoming the basis for achieving your larger goals.
What advice can you give other young professionals who are considering entering politics?
The allure of politics can appear enticing; most don’t understand the responsibility that comes with having influence. Make certain to place the interest of the constituents ahead of your own ambitions. People can support someone that seeks to understand how life appears from their perspective. Often time’s public service comes with sacrifices; the easier you can deal with those the better you will do in politics.
What inspired you to run for public office, and what are your priorities in that capacity?
Initially I recognized a huge disparity in neighborhoods that I grew up in; to this day many members in my family are living in difficult conditions. That understanding serves as a foundation to my inspiration to hold office. I have always viewed politics as a vehicle to help those whose voices have been silenced. My priorities are to continue to serve my constituency and express their interest in which ever office I hold.
Tell us about the program you founded, Gloves for Grades.
The Gloves4Grades program was established to encourage academic success in young amateur boxers. Starting as a way to give back to the 12th and Park Boxing Gym; it has grown to multiple recreational centers throughout the city. Children sign up at the beginning of the school year and if they excel academically they receive free boxing gloves. This year the program also includes age appropriate books for the kids and we will be awarding two $500 academic scholarships.
