Darla Otey-Murphy

Darla Otey-Murphy is a powerhouse of leadership, passion, and impact. As the Executive Director of Girls Inc. of Tampa Bay since 2019, she has transformed the organization into a beacon of empowerment, earning widespread recognition for its incredible work with young girls. Under her leadership, the organization has soared to new heights, setting the standard for excellence in the non-profit sector.

With over 30 years of experience spanning both corporate and non-profit landscapes, Darla has mastered the art of strategic development while keeping those she serves and works alongside as the heart of the work. She doesn’t just meet goals—she surpasses them with visionary initiatives that generate lasting success. Her ability to cultivate partnerships and drive innovative strategies has been a game-changer for every organization she has touched.

Before taking the helm at Girls Inc., Darla served as the Director of Development for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Volusia/Flagler Counties, where she raised over $2 million in just two years. And they didn’t stop there—they consistently exceeded fundraising goals by an impressive 45% year after year, proving that under Darla’s leadership, success isn’t just a possibility; it’s a guarantee.

Committed to sharing her knowledge and experience, she empowers other non-profits to unlock their full potential, equipping them with the tools and strategies to achieve and sustain meaningful growth.

A proud graduate of Rutgers University, Darla holds a Bachelor of Arts in Management and Labor Relations, a testament to her strong foundation in leadership and organizational development. Her unwavering commitment to her community has not gone unnoticed—she was honored as the 2021 Community Hero by the Rotary Club of Pinellas and was named the 2016 Non-Profit Business Woman of the Year in Volusia/Flagler County.

Beyond her professional achievements, Darla’s heart belongs to faith, family, and service. As the First Lady of Mt. Zion Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, the largest African American church in St. Petersburg, FL, she stands alongside her husband, Pastor Louis M. Murphy, serving as a guiding light within their congregation.

But if you ask Darla what brings her the most joy, she’ll tell you it’s her family. She is the proud mother of three amazing adult children and two wonderful bonus children, and she cherishes her role as “Grammy” to eight beautiful grandchildren—with one more on the way!

With a heart for service, a mind for strategy, and an undeniable passion for uplifting others, Darla Otey-Murphy continues to blaze a trail of impact, proving that when women lead, the world transforms.