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 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 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.

Later, 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. It was during this period that her father recognized her talent and invited her to join their family business, Pioneer Linens.

Inspired by her grandfather Max Greenberg’s entrepreneurial legacy, Penny pursued her own path of excellence. Her first project for Pioneer Linens 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, Penny became president in 2007, continuing his legacy with commitment and innovation. Today, she still successfully steers the family business as it enters its 113^th 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. 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 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 serves as Secretary on the Executive Board. She is a longtime board member of the Historical Society of Palm Beach, and she and her husband, Alan, are major donors to Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens. Penny 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 fundraising 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. In 2025. she was honored as an American Free Enterprise companion medalist by Palm Beach Atlantic University . In spring 2024, she was thrilled to receive the Leadership Award from the Girl Scouts of America, a testament to her commitment to empowering future generations.

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.