Kellie Beth Hegarty-Murphy of Tamaqua received her doctorate last month in physical therapy from the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia.

She is the wife of Shane Murphy, daughter of Marian and Sean Hegarty and granddaughter of Lois Hegarty, all of Tamaqua. She is a 2006 graduate of Tamaqua Area High School.Hegarty-Murphy completed a research study along with her faculty adviser entitled "Effects of a Group-Based Strength and Balance Training Exercise Program on Fall Risk in Community-Dwelling Older Adults" while at USciences.She is also a member of the Alpha Sigma Tau sorority.She recently accepted a position as a physical therapist for PinnacleHealth's new West Shore Hospital in Mechanicsburg.