Liz Murray was born on September 23, 1980, in the Bronx, New York, to parents who struggled with drug addiction. Her childhood was marked by poverty and instability, as her mother passed away from AIDS when Liz was just a teenager. Following her mother's death, Liz and her father, who was also HIV-infected, found themselves homeless, living on the streets of New York City.
Despite facing numerous challenges, Liz was determined to break free from the cycle of homelessness and poverty. She enrolled in New York City's Humanities Preparatory Academy and managed to graduate in just two years, a remarkable achievement considering her circumstances. Her academic success caught the attention of Harvard University, and she was eventually accepted into the prestigious institution.
At Harvard, Liz thrived both academically and personally. She found a sense of purpose and belonging that had been missing from her life for so long. Alongside her academic pursuits, she also became involved in activism and advocacy work, using her platform to bring attention to issues of homelessness and poverty.
In 2010, Liz Murray published her memoir, Breaking Night, which became a bestseller and resonated with readers around the world. In the book, she candidly shares her experiences of growing up homeless in New York City and the resilience and determination that ultimately led her to Harvard University. Breaking Night is a testament to the power of hope, hard work, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
As an entrepreneur, Liz Murray founded Manifest Living, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and live their best lives. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and motivational speaking engagements, Liz continues to inspire others to reach their full potential and pursue their dreams.
Liz Murray's personal life has also been marked by triumphs and joys. She is married to James Scanlon, and together they have two children, a son named Liam and a daughter named Maya Jean. Liz's sister also managed to escape poverty, earning a degree from Purchase College and becoming a special education teacher.
Liz Murray's story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of overcoming even the most challenging circumstances. Her journey from homelessness to Harvard is a testament to the transformative power of education, perseverance, and hope. Through her writing, activism, and advocacy work, Liz continues to inspire and empower individuals to break free from limitations and live their best lives.