About Darla Otey-Murphy

Darla Otey-Murphy is a dynamic and visionary leader whose impact has been nothing short of transformative. Since taking the helm as the Executive Director of Girls Inc of Tampa Bay in 2019, she has propelled the organization to become a shining beacon among non-profits in the region, earning it widespread recognition and respect.

With over two decades of leadership experience spanning both non-profit and corporate realms, Darla has consistently demonstrated her prowess in fundraising and volunteer management. Her expertise lies in conceiving and executing initiatives that consistently surpass fundraising targets.

Darla is renowned as a change agent for struggling nonprofits and has raised over $25 million during her career as a nonprofit executive.

Darla’s commitment to the non-profit sector extends beyond her role as an executive. She also serves as an independent consultant, helping non-profit organizations develop and implement effective fundraising strategies to unlock their maximum potential.

Darla holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Management and Labor Relations from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey. She’s an active member of prominent chambers of commerce, including St. Petersburg, Pinellas Park Gateway, and Central Pinellas Chambers of Commerce.

Her dedication to her community has not gone unnoticed. She was honored as the 2021 Community Hero by the Rotary Club of Pinellas County and named the 2016 Non-Profit Business Woman of the Year in Volusia/Flagler County.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Darla enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband Louis M. Murphy, the Senior Pastor of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church (the largest African American church in St. Petersburg), three adult children, two bonus children, and eight grandchildren.