Women of Distinction

Penny G. Murphy is a proud third-generation native of West Palm Beach, Florida, where she has deep roots in the vibrant SoSo neighborhood. Growing up in this close-knit community instilled in her a strong sense of belonging and the values of hard work and dedication. After graduating from Forest Hill High School, she pursued her passion for education, earning an Associate of Arts Degree from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Education from George Mason University in 1972. She later obtained her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Wheelock University in Boston in 1977.
In 1978, Penny embarked on her journey as an educator by opening Penny Brown’s Kindergarten in Wellington, Florida. This venture was not just a career; it was a heartfelt mission to nurture young minds. After the birth of her second child in 1983, she embraced the role of a stay-at-home mom, dedicating her time to her three children while serving as a “Room Mom” and substitute teacher at the Palm Beach Day School.
Her passion for education and community service led her to a role at St. Ann’s School from 1992 to 1994, where she helped with public relations, marketing and fundraising for the school. It was here that her father recognized her talent and invited her to join their family business, Pioneer Linens.
Her first project for Pioneer focused on starting the designer program, which has been a pinnacle part of the company’s business, and in 2000 she launched the company’s website. Following the passing of her father, George Greenberg, she became president in 2007, continuing his legacy with dedication and innovation. Today, she still successfully steers the family business as it enters into its 113th year.
Penny’s personal life is just as fulfilling as her professional one. She has been happily married to her husband, Alan Murphy Sr., for 45 years. Together, they are proud parents to three wonderful children: Alan Jr., Marissa Adriaanse, and Camille Kubicek. Their family has grown to include two granddaughters, Elsie and Georgia, and a grandson, Trey, who all live nearby in West Palm Beach—a blessing that fills their lives with joy.
Deeply committed to her community, Penny serves on the Board of Trustees for the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches and is an active participant at The Richard and Pat Johnson History Museum of Palm Beach County, where she holds the position of Secretary on the Executive Board. She has also contributed to the Executive Committee for Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Women of Distinction Luncheon for many years.
Penny’s philanthropic spirit shines through her involvement in local initiatives, including helping to raise funds for the 2024 Jupiter Medical Center Foundation Ball. In recognition of her leadership and contributions, she received the Small Business Award from the Chamber of Commerce of The Palm Beaches and was honored with the Palm Beach Atlantic University American Free Enterprise Award. Last spring, she was thrilled to receive the Leadership Award from the Girl Scouts of America, a testament to her commitment to empowering future generations.
Penny’s journey reflects a life dedicated to education, community and family—a legacy she continues to build every day.

Amanda Schumacher is a visionary, entrepreneur, philanthropist, humanitarian, and mother of five children dedicated to empowering local and global communities.
In 2006, she founded Tree of Life Foundation International, Inc., where she serves as President. The Foundation consolidates gifts, talents, and resources within the twenty-two branches, distributing resources worldwide through Tree of Life Resource Centers and empowering support for global communities. She also founded Tree of Life Enterprise Services, that provides employment services with 100% of profits supporting the Foundation.
She also founded, Tree of Life Center that provides residential transitional housing sites around the Tree of Life Resource Center and rehabilitates lives. The Foundation allocates 100% of all proceeds and donations to the individuals and organizations supported by all branches. The Foundation hosts the Global Heart Awards to recognize philanthropic outstanding contributions from businesses and individuals around the world. She is CEO of Schumacher Auto Group, President and Owner of We Insure Schumacher Insurance, and Senior Partner of Global Elite Solutions Institute Inc.
Amanda actively participates on advisory boards for organizations such as Palm Beach Island Hospice Foundation, American Red Cross, Palm Beach Republican Club, Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, Boys and Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, Center for Creative Education, Florida Easter Seals, Oxbridge Academy, Palm Beach Day Academy, Palm Beach Zoo, and numerous others.
Her achievements have been highlighted in major publications including Palm Beach Illustrated Palm Beach 100 Business Leaders, Modern Luxury Palm Beach Dynamic Women, and Automotive News, and she received the African Leadership Organization’s 2023 Inspirational Leadership Award. She was featured on the cover of Modern Luxury Palm Beach in November for National Philanthropy Month as an agent of change.