EMILY

By David Kronke Tribune-Star

While Emily Murray was working at the Wabash Valley Community Foundation she was involved in fundraising for a plethora of nonprofits in Vigo, Clay and Sullivan counties.

One of those was the Council on Domestic Abuse, also known as CODA.

“Their mission drew me in — empowering people, not just women but men too,” Murray said. “The mission always spoke to me.”

She took the position of executive director at CODA a little less than three years ago, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“People were, ‘Why did you take a job in the middle of a pandemic?’” Murray recalled. “I didn’t think about it being a residential facility. I just thought this is a good opportunity for me to grow into a new leadership position.”

CODA provides emergency housing at its shelter for victims of domestic abuse. The number of residents varies, depending on whether those fleeing violence have children accompanying them — each room has bunk beds. In February, about 30 people were staying at the shelter, so it was maxed out. Some people stay a day, others stay a year.

“Since joining CODA, Emily has made a measurable impact not only as its executive director but as a passionate advocate for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault,” wrote Alaina Burton in her letter nominating Murray to be honored by being named to the 12 Under 40 list.

Murray admits that running a shelter that protects victims of abuse can be a daunting proposition.

Turn to MURRAY, D14

■ Title: Executive Director, Council on Domestic Abuse, Inc

■ Education: B.A. in History from Indiana State University, M.A. in Anthropology from Ball State.

■ Community Service: Putting new tennis shoes on youngsters on the Terre Haute Women’s Club’s Shoe Bus. Fundraising for CODA and FSA, volunteering with Team of Mercy, serving on a United Way committee.