Murphy founded Champion Ballroom Academy in April of 1990, her goal: to provide the best facility for competitive dance training in San Diego. She has assembled a team of qualified and talented instructors who provide unparalleled quality of instruction in both the American and International Styles of dance in a positive and encouraging atmosphere. Between engagements as a judge for some of the most reputable competitions in ballroom dance, including the U.S. National Championships and Fox TV's "So You Think You Can Dance," Mary can still be found on Champion's floor passing on her knowledge to her students.