Groundswell Celebrates the Leadership of Robyne Walker Murphy

Freedom, by definition, is people realizing they are their own leaders.

                                                  ~ Diane Nash, Civil Rights Activist

It is with a spirit of gratitude, we announce that Robyne Walker Murphy will transition from her role as Executive Director effective July 1st, 2022.

As I begin the process of transitioning out of this phase in my life, I do so with a tremendous about of love and gratitude for the Groundswell community. The last five years have been transformative for me. I would like to thank our incredible artists, young people, staff, and board of directors for embracing me and inspiring me every day. Lastly, I would like to thank my friends and family, in particular my husband Tarik and my son Ras, for being both my biggest fans and toughest critics. I look forward to welcoming the new Executive Director and settling into my new role as a donor, supporter, and forever friend of Groundswell! -Robyne Walker Murphy

During Her Tenure At Groundswell

Robyne’s tenure at Groundswell saw the organization step boldly into its role as a national thought leader in the area of youth development, public art, and social justice. Upon her arrival in 2017, Robyne hosted her first event "Freedom Is A Constant Struggle" with esteemed activist Angela Davis. This historic event featured a keynote by Davis, discussing and bearing witness to the 30+ murals created by youth artists detained at Rikers Island. Co-hosted by CUNY Graduate Center and attended by 400 people, the event sent a clear message that her vision was to amplify Groundswell’s collection of murals to their rightful place as not only public art but visual documentation of community dialogue that commented on the conditions of the time of which they were created. 

Read full announcement here