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“Lit by the Tunnel’s End: A Story of , Family, and Fortitude”

From Reading Struggles to Corporate Success: A Single Mother's Journey of Perseverance and Growth

Sharon Murphy
Sharon Murphy
Sr. Controls Manager
GPI
“Lit by the Tunnel’s End: A Story of , Family, and Fortitude”

Sharon Murphy’s story is one of resilience, determination, and unstoppable growth. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, she grew up in a lively home with her mom, dad, and six siblings. As the middle daughter, she quickly learned the importance of strength, adaptability, and finding her own voice. She attended Central High School, where she graduated despite facing challenges with reading beyond a ninth-grade level. While many might have let that setback define them, Sharon refused to let it determine her future.

At just 20 years old, Sharon welcomed her son, Mc’Kullan Hunt, into the world. Becoming a young mother gave her a powerful reason to push forward. With him as her motivation, she began teaching herself how to read and comprehend at a higher level, slowly but surely building the knowledge she once struggled with. Her determination paid off—after years of learning, growing, and refusing to give up, Sharon returned to college. She earned her Associate’s degree in Healthcare, and later, her Bachelor’s in Business Management with a focus on Leadership and Development. Currently, she is pursuing her Master’s in Business, with graduation expected in May 2026.

Professionally, Sharon has built an impressive career in manufacturing. With over a decade of experience working for some of the leading corporations in the world, she now serves as a Production Controls Manager for a Fortune 500 company. Along the way, she has been guided and inspired by incredible coaches and mentors, who fueled her passion for leadership and personal success.

But at the heart of her story are her mom and her son—her greatest sources of light. As a single mother raising a young African American man, Sharon takes immense pride in Mc’Kullan’s growth. Today, he is excelling in life, balancing work, school, and a healthy lifestyle. His accomplishments are a reflection of her perseverance, love, and guidance.

Sharon’s journey proves that challenges don’t define destiny—determination does. From struggling with reading to leading in business, she has transformed obstacles into stepping stones. Her story is a testament to the power of self-belief, lifelong learning, and the unwavering drive to create a better future for herself and her son.

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