Kaci Murray

When it came time to decide on where to go to college, this Central Bucks West High School graduate knew she wanted a small school and continue playing the sport she loved.

“I chose GMercyU because I wanted to stay close to home and be part of a tight-knit community, both academically and athletically. The smaller class sizes gave me the chance to build meaningful connections with professors. The opportunity to be recruited and continue playing field hockey at the collegiate level was also an important factor in my decision. I wanted a school where I could excel both on and off the field and I knew that was possible here."

Always interested in the aging process and older adults, Kaci decided to major in gerontology. The program was well-rounded and prepared Kaci for whatever path she chose post-graduation.

“I knew the knowledge I was given would prepare and support me to be successful whichever path I decided to go. It proved to be valuable in my future path toward speech-language pathology, as well,” Kaci said.

While an undergrad, Kaci was a five-year starter of GMercyU’s Field Hockey team earning both  NFHCA Division III Region IV Second team and All-AEC First team in 2021 and 2022.  She ranks among the program’s Top-10 all-time in defensive saves (4^th, 13) and penalty strokes (T8^th, 2), while finishing her collegiate career with four goals, eight assists, 16 points, 60 shots, and a pair of game-winning goals. After graduating, Kaci joined the team as an assistant in March 2023.

“Being a student-athlete was a big part of my undergraduate experience. It taught me a lot about teamwork, time management, and perseverance,” Kaci said. “I was honored to be a two-year captain and being in that role taught me leadership, accountability, and how to support and motivate others.

Experience in MSSLP Program

After graduating with her bachelor’s degree, Kaci decided to go on to graduate school, specifically to study Speech-Language Pathology. Despite not having a strong background in SLP, Kaci was confident that GMercyU’s supportive learning environment would help her succeed.

“I decided to pursue my MS in Speech-Language Pathology because I wanted a career where I could make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. This field is so versatile and rewarding. The opportunity to help individuals communicate, connect, and gain confidence motivated me to take the next step in becoming an SLP.”

One of the main reasons Kaci chose GMercyU’s MSSLP program is because of the numerous clinical opportunities provided to students. Throughout her time in the program, Kaci has gained experience in a variety of settings, including early intervention, preschools, older adult settings, and now an externship in an elementary school.

“Their focus on early and varied clinical experience stood out to me. Starting clinical work almost right away allows for the immediate connection between coursework and practice. It prepared me well to enter the field as a confident and well-rounded clinician,” Kaci said.

In the preschool setting, Kaci learned how to keep therapy engaging while still targeting goals. Working with older adults gave Kaci the opportunity to connect her gerontology background with speech. At the elementary school, Kaci worked with a wide range of speech and language needs, challenging her to adapt her therapy approaches and further build her confidence.

“Each placement has given me something unique and valuable. Working across multiple populations has deepened my appreciation for supporting communication across the lifespan,” Kaci said.

In Fall 2025, Kacie conducted her clinical at Bucks County Intermediate Unit where she immediately started making a difference.

“My students have really enjoyed getting to know Kaci and she has made a great impression on our teachers and related service providers. She has shown strong professionalism and initiative, and I am confident she will continue to grow in her clinical skills throughout the semester.” - Grace McInerney, M.S., CCC-SLP, Itinerant Speech-Language Pathologist at Bucks County Intermediate Unit and Clinical Supervisor said at the beginning of the semester.

Another highlight of GMercyU’s MSSLP program for Kaci was its hybrid format. Year 1 is in-person and year 2 is has courses online and externships in-person. The in-person learning allows for hands-on learning, immediate feedback, and real-time observation. so much confidence and understanding.

“An in-person program sets students up for success in a way that’s hard to replicate online. For me, the in-person environment has been invaluable, not just for developing clinical skills, but for building connections and learning from other experiences,” Kaci said. “My cohort has been such a blessing. We collaborate, encourage one another, and celebrate our successes.”

As graduation approaches, Kaci sees herself working with children in a school-based setting but is keeping the door open to her original passion of serving the older adult population.

“I feel grateful that this field allows me to keep both doors open as I grow in my career,” Kaci said.