A Light That Never Stopped Shining: Susan Hurley to Receive the Amy K. Murray Angel Award
The family story goes that Susan Hurley once missed the school bus as a kid, so she ran after it. From that day forward, she never really stopped running.
That determination carried her through life, from her days as a New England Patriots cheerleader to becoming one of the most beloved leaders in the Boston Marathon charity community. But beyond the miles and the medals, Susan was something even greater, a champion for others.
This year, at the 125th Anniversary Gala of the South Boston Neighborhood House — The House is Where the Heart is— the late Susan Hurley will be honored with the Amy K. Murray Angel Award.
The award is presented in memory of Amy K. Murray and recognizes individuals who embody generosity, compassion, and a deep commitment to community. This year’s honor is especially meaningful. The award will be presented posthumously to Susan, founder of CharityTeams and the driving force behind Team Ollie’s Boston Marathon fundraising efforts for more than a decade. Through her tireless leadership, Susan helped raise more than $1 million in support of the South Boston Neighborhood House’s mission.
“She called the Ollie her ‘small but mighty charity with a huge heart.’ She was passionate about her runners and the many charities they represented – and each and every one of us was convinced we were her favorite…. Susan moved through life with a very special grace, and she shared it with arms wide open and that unforgettable smile. She and Amy would have loved each other,” said Mary Fiske, Development Director of the Ollie.
For those who knew her best, Susan’s impact was simple to describe.
“She was first and foremost a mother and a cheerleader,” said her son Max McGillivray. “She motivated all those who knew her to live life to the fullest. She took care of her children, her family, her charities, and her runners as only a mother could. She was the very definition of light in this world.”
In 2008, Susan founded CharityTeams, combining her natural charisma, love of running, and deep desire to help others into something powerful.
“Nineteen years ago, our father suggested that our mother would make her an ideal leader for charities and runners during the challenging experience of fundraising and training for the Boston Marathon,” Susan’s son Max explained. “She became deeply invested in each runner’s personal story, their goals, and their journey to complete the 26.2-mile race.”
But beyond the miles and the medals, Susan was something even greater — a source of encouragement and strength for everyone around her.
“She taught me to live life passionately and to believe in the power of the human spirit,” Max shared. “She taught me to be the change I wish to see in the world.”
Diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2022, Susan faced the fight with the same grace and faith she brought to everything else in life, continuing to inspire those around her.
Her sons believe she would have been deeply touched by the recognition.
“She would be humbled and honored,” Max said. “Like Amy, she lived life with an infectious spirit and deep compassion. She was one of God’s angels on this earth.”
The award’s namesake family agrees.
“I was so pleased to learn that the late Susan Hurley will receive the Amy K. Murray Angel Award this year for her extraordinary work, dedication, and passion in the community over the years,” said Arthur Murray. “I believe this is the first time the award is being received, sadly, posthumously, and a very well-deserved honor indeed. The Ollie management and staff have a huge place in the hearts of many in South Boston and beyond. Their selection of Susan Hurley was a warm-hearted and most appropriate decision. I know my daughter Amy would be proud.”
For Susan’s family, the honor carries deep meaning.
“Losing her has really felt like losing oxygen,” her son Max shared. “You don’t know how you’ll survive. The only way has been to live in her light with kindness, compassion, generosity, and selflessness. This award feels like a celebration of that light.”
And if there’s one way the neighborhood can continue Susan’s legacy, what would it be?
“Our mom made it her personal mission to cheer on others, even when she wasn’t feeling her best,” Ryan said. “We should all strive to spread joy and live our lives with an open heart.”
On March 20th, the Ollie community will gather to celebrate a woman who lifted countless others. And while the award honors her life, Susan Hurley’s legacy of compassion, community, and cheering others on is still felt every single day.
You can purchase your gala tickets here.
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