FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Ruby A. Murray, senior Army instructor at South View High School, was named the 2026 Sisters in Service Lifetime Achievement Award winner during the Women Veterans Interactive Foundation National Conference in Arlington, Virginia.

The prestigious recognition honors Murray's outstanding military service, leadership, mentorship and lifelong commitment to empowering others.

A decorated Army veteran with more than 26 years of service, Murray retired in 2016 and has continued her mission of servant leadership through education, fitness, veterans' advocacy and community service.

For nearly a decade, Murray has served as the senior Army instructor at South View High School, inspiring cadets to achieve academic excellence, develop leadership skills and become productive citizens.

"I am truly humbled and honored to receive this national recognition. I never served for awards or recognition. I served to make a difference, break barriers and leave footprints for the next generation. I arrived as a finalist, but God had other plans." Murray shared.

Murray expressed her gratitude to Ginger Miller, CEO of Women Veterans Interactive Foundation, for her dedication to advocating for and empowering women veterans nationwide.

"My military uniform may be retired, but my mission to serve continues. True leadership is not about the rank you wear, but the lives you touch."

This national recognition highlights Murray's continued dedication to excellence, service and leadership within Cumberland County Schools and beyond.