As we embark on a new year, 2026, in a couple of weeks, we wanted to share the monumental work that the MurthyNAYAK Foundation (Foundation) and Sheela Murthy, have done through the Foundation for almost 25 years. The MurthyNAYAK Foundation has been providing support since 2001 to various U.S. nonprofits that help to educate and empower Americans, provide shelter and other necessities, feed the homeless, provide free legal services, and provide leadership training, skills, and opportunities for our youth and veterans.
Background on the Creation of the Foundation
The story of Ms. Murthy’s launch of the Foundation provides context for why she loves her adopted country and cares about supporting people. Sheela Murthy worked in New York City after graduating with her master’s in law (LL.M) from Harvard Law School. When the tragic and devastating events occurred on September 11, 2001, she felt that, were she still in New York City, she would have been directly impacted by the horrific events of that day. She was determined to create and establish a foundation to help this great country, her adopted country, which she loves and cares about deeply. She wanted others to partake in the great American dream, and it was her dedication and devotion to make a difference that resulted in the establishment of the Foundation later that year, in 2001. She wanted to generously give back to the nation she had adopted, one that enabled her to make a successful career. She often quotes Winston Churchill who said, “You make a living by what you earn, you make a life by what you give.”
Relationship of the Foundation and the Murthy Law Firm
The growth and success of the Murthy Law Firm (Firm) over the last 30 plus years has been the impetus for the continued growth and success of the Foundation. Sheela Murthy ensured that, in good years, the Firm would support the Foundation because life is all about helping, supporting, taking care, and empowering others.
Sheela Murthy has always been passionate about the causes she supports, whether through philanthropy, leadership, or standing up for immigrants who have come to this country legally, on proper visas, to work in sectors where they are needed by this country. The Firm has helped thousands of employers and businesses to find the best talent and helped families to achieve their American dream, many of whom have been patiently waiting their turn, often for decades, even with a U.S. master’s or PhD degree, just to get the “green card.” A lifelong advocate for care, compassion, and non-violence, her dream is to establish a world where every person can blossom to his/her full potential to support themselves, their families, and the community.
Focus of the Work of the Foundation
Sheela Murthy and the MurthyNAYAK Foundation have built a long, consistent record of philanthropy focused on strengthening communities across the United States, particularly in the areas of education, health, women, children, veterans, and support with social services. From its early years, the Foundation has directed resources to organizations that expand opportunity for Americans – especially those facing economic, educational, health, or legal challenges. The Foundation’s work has included substantial financial and governance support over the years for well-established U.S. nonprofits like the Girl Scouts in central Maryland, United Way Worldwide, United Way in Central Maryland (UWCM), United Way in N.E. Florida (UWNEFL), Harvard Law School, the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), Stevenson University, and the Baltimore Museum of Art, among others.
By supporting organizations that help Americans, the Foundation also has strengthened students and veterans with greater workforce participation and civic engagement – benefits that ripple outward to local economies and American communities.
Murthy’s Active Engagement to Support U.S. Nonprofits
Ms. Murthy has extensive and active service with various institutions over the years like being on the Dean’s Advisory Council of Harvard Law School and on the board of Stevenson University, and at JHPIEGO, a Johns Hopkins affiliate. She currently serves on the boards of the leading art school, MICA, and the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) and is the Chair of the Tocqueville Society of the United Way in Northeast Florida. The Foundation’s work has included substantial financial and governance support over the years for well-established U.S. organizations and nonprofits like the American Red Cross 9/11, Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Maryland, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Community College of Baltimore County, Girl Scouts, Harvard Law School, Homeless Persons Representation Project, Homeless Youth Initiative, Housing Justice Project, Komen Foundation, Maryland Institute College of Art, Maryland Lawyers’ Campaign Against Hunger, Maryland Legal Aid, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Stevenson University, United Ways in Maryland & Florida, Veterans Legal Assistance Project, Women’s Law Center of Maryland, among others. By supporting organizations that help Americans, the Foundation has strengthened workforce participation through various programs and the benefits that ripple outward to local economies and communities across the U.S.
This combination of financial support, strategic vision, and governance support, helps nonprofits to scale their services, improve accountability, transparency, and reach more people effectively.
Summary
The cumulative effect of the MurthyNAYAK Foundation’s work is directly beneficial to the U.S. and its people. By supporting education, strengthening organizations, and supporting underserved Americans to build stable, productive lives, the Foundation contributes directly to the nation’s economic vitality, social cohesion, and long-term strength and competitiveness.
The MurthyNAYAK Foundation’s approach – focused on opportunity, dignity, and empowerment – reflects a belief that when people are given the tools to succeed, the entire country becomes stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous. This is the vision and mission of Sheela Murthy, as the founder of the MurthyNAYAK Foundation, to love and support her adopted country, the great United States of America.
Quotes from CEOs of Various Nonprofits on Sheela Murthy and the Foundation
“Sheela Murthy’s commitment to empowering girls demonstrates her support of the next generation of female leaders and ensures that these girls gain the leadership skills, develop the resilience, and sense of purpose needed to make their mark in the world. Sheela embodies the true American spirit — generous, principled, and determined to open doors for the next generation.”
Jenny Trostel, CEO of the Girl Scouts of Central Maryland
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United Way Northeast Florida
“Sheela Murthy’s unwavering support has strengthened our efforts in youth opportunity, financial stability, and health — the pillars of thriving communities. Her partnership and that of the MurthyNAYAK Foundation has helped to expand opportunities for families and veterans who need it most and reinforced our mission across Northeast Florida. Sheela demonstrates the sense of a true American: steadfast, compassionate, and committed to ensuring everyone has the chance to build a better life.”
Melanie D. Patz, President & CEO, United Way of Northeast Florida
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Maryland Institute, College of Art
“The generous support of Sheela Murthy and the MurthyNAYAK Foundation has helped to expand opportunities for learning, creativity, and artistic exploration for students across our community. Her belief in the power of education and the arts has enabled emerging artists to find their voices and share their stories. Sheela reflects the spirit of a true leader — bold, compassionate, and dedicated to building a future where every student can thrive.”
Cecilia M. McCormick, President, Maryland Institute College of Art
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JHPIEGO – Johns Hopkins Affiliate
“Sheela Murthy’s unwavering commitment to the health and dignity of women and children has been nothing short of transformative. Her leadership – and the philanthropy of the MurthyNAYAK Foundation – has strengthened the systems and services families rely on, often in the most challenging environments. What moves me most is Sheela’s generosity of spirit. She embodies the best of what it means to be an American: compassionate, forward-looking, and devoted to the well-being of others.”
Leslie Mancuso, President & CEO, JHPIEGO – Johns Hopkins Affiliate