Murphy Hoefer, Salutatorian

Murphy Hoefer is the Class of 2025 Salutatorian. An FWCD “Original,” she exemplifies Fort Worth Country Day’s 3A’s through her academic excellence, athletic leadership, commitment to the arts, and service heart. Inducted into the Cum Laude Society as a junior, Hoefer is a student whose intellectual curiosity and drive define her approach to learning. Whether tackling multivariable calculus or engaging in literary analysis, she demonstrates a level of insight that sets her apart from her peers. 

Some of Hoefer’s favorite classes are in the STEM arena, and she fuels her classroom knowledge with hands-on experience beyond FWCD’s campus. She cites AP Chemistry with Mark Lichaj and Multivariable Calculus with Dr. Heather Peace as favorites for the challenging coursework and the engaging classroom “vibes.” She also loved courses that took her beyond the classroom walls, such as the Marine Biology course that included a summer 2023 trip to Hawaii.

During the summer of 2024, she interned at Eosera, a biotech company founded by FWCD alumna Elyse Stoltz Dickerson ’93. In this internship, Hoefer conducted a time study across multiple stages of the company’s production line. Hoefer’s work – identifying inefficiencies in quality checks, compounding, bottling and packing – showcased her analytical mindset and problem-solving skills. Her willingness to go above and beyond to learn and her real-world engagement earned Hoefer the prestigious Rensselaer Medal (as a junior), in recognition of her excellence in math and science, as well as AP Scholar Honors for her outstanding performance across multiple AP exams.

Beyond academics, Hoefer performed in the Upper School Orchestra for four years, playing the cello, and is FWCD’s top female athlete in the Class of 2025. A three-sport competitor who has earned the Stansbery Award each year for completing three athletic seasons annually since 2021, Hoefer was captain of FWCD’s cross-country and swim teams. Her accomplishments include setting the School record in the 800-meter run and earning the MVP and Coaches Awards in cross-country, as well as the Richard Steed Award and Outstanding Female Athlete honors. In 2023, Hoefer also was the Jimmy D. Brown Award recipient, which is presented by faculty to the junior girl who best exemplifies excellence in academics and athletics.

Hoefer shared that one of the most important lessons she has learned as an FWCD student is that you can do it all. “I loved all of my classes, participated in three sports, and played in the orchestra for eight years [Middle and Upper School],” she said. “Sure, it was busy, but it was so rewarding, and I’ve made forever friends doing that.”

Leadership and service are natural extensions of Hoefer’s character. She served as a Link Crew leader for two years, guiding ninth grade students with empathy and insight as they navigated the transition to high school. Hoefer’s work on the Honor Council reflected integrity and responsibility, as she upheld FWCD’s core values. 

Hoefer’s life on her family’s ranch has also shaped her in meaningful ways. Since 2018, she has run a small business selling eggs from her chickens to neighbors, saving the money for college, and gaining an understanding of entrepreneurship. Her ranch responsibilities have shaped her work ethic and taught her to prioritize the well-being of others. It is not uncommon for her to complete a full day of school and training before tackling evening chores in the barn. 

When asked about favorite FWCD memories, Hoefer recalled the classwide ropes course days. “My favorite part was the flying squirrel,” she said. “There’s a flyer and a pull team attached to two ends of a rope, which is strung over a high wire. Simultaneously, the pull team and flyer run in different directions. When the rope is tight, the flyer zooms into the air!” She also remembers football games from Lower School, though not for the football. “I loved sliding down the berm on cardboard boxes,” she noted. “I will miss walking around and seeing familiar faces wherever I go, and hallway conversations with my teachers and friends throughout the day.” 

This summer, Hoefer will serve as a Teaching Fellow at Breakthrough Fort Worth, hosted on the FWCD campus, teaching chemistry – another way she continues to inspire and give back.

Hoefer will attend Dartmouth College. Whether pursuing biochemistry, Latin, or a future in medicine, she is poised to thrive in rigorous academic environments and contribute meaningfully to the communities she joins.