The Cara E. Murtagh Memorial Scholarship is provided by our foundation to honor our dear friend Cara’s memory. On a yearly basis, we will be awarding a PVMHS senior with a scholarship to help with their college education. Cara was an active member of our foundation where she spearheaded many of our programs and events. After Cara’s passing, the Murtagh family had generously asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Peabody Education Foundation. Donations and messages came in from across the country attesting to the love and admiration so many shared for her. Through this scholarship, we hope to preserve Cara’s dedication and commitment to the education of the school children of Peabody for years to come.

Congratulations to our 2025 Recipient Winner, Victoryia Carter!

On Thursday, May 15, 2025, David Gravel, President & Chairperson of the Board, joined with members of the Peabody Education Foundation (PEF) and Mrs. Carol Murtagh to present Victoryia Carter with the 2025 Cara E. Murtagh Memorial Scholarship.

The PEF selected Victoryia as a result of her tenacity and devotion to pursuing a career in education. Victoryia feels that “becoming a teacher is a dream that I have nurtured for years. It is not just a career choice; it is a calling that resonates deeply with my values and aspirations. There are several reasons why I want to be a teacher, and they all revolve around my passion for education, my desire to make a positive impact, and my love for learning, in essence, education is not just about personal achievement; it’s about becoming a better person and contributing to the world in meaningful ways.”

The PEF established this scholarship to honor Cara’s memory, her dedication and commitment to education, and her love for the school children of Peabody. She will always be remembered for her kind and loving personality, her enthusiasm, flawless diligence, and her ability to develop strong relationships with students, teachers, parents, and administrators.

“Victoryia demonstrates her resolve to better the lives of future generations in their daily work. She will respect her students, regardless of their age and skill, and make them feel special, important, and unique,” stated David Gravel. “Victoryia possesses a passion for teaching and working with children which personifies the life of Cara Murtagh.”

“Dream Big, Never Give Up, Do Your Best, Set a Good Example and Have a Generous Heart.”

2024 Recipient Winners, Ava DeCicco & Clara Oliveira!

2023 Recipient Winners, Sydney Campbell & Siobhan Smith!

2022 Recipient Winner, Gabriella Drinkwater!

2021 Recipient Winner, Paulina Straticos!

2020 Recipient Winner, Kassidy Butt!