Rose Murdock has a distinguished career in journalism that spans the course of thirty years.  She began her career as a fashion editor in African American publications such as The Amsterdam News in New York City, and the National Scene, where she was a syndicated columnist and featured in over 100 newspapers in the United States and Canada.

Ms. Murdock was managing editor for  Fashion World Daily, an international fashion newspaper. She was also a fashion reporter for BBW (Big Beautiful Woman), a plus size woman's magazine, and for a brief time she was a stylist for Belle Magazine.

Ms. Murdock’s commitment to excellence in journalism caught the eye of TCM Management in the 1980’s when the organization gave her their prestigious award in fashion journalism along with several editors from other publications, including Vogue Magazine.

Ms. Murdock’s strong entrepreneurial spirit led her to form her own fashion publishing company geared towards the plus size woman in 1995.  In June of 1995, several of her publications were featured in Glamour Magazine; among them was The National Outlet Shoppers Guide For Plus Size Fashion.  In addition, Ms. Murdock also designed a line of clothing for a direct selling company in the late 1990’s, taught workshops on home-based fashion related businesses, and organized fashion buying trips to Europe.  In 2005, she received an award for Excellence in Entrepreneurship by the Virtuous Women Network, an organization of Christian women entrepreneurs.

While Ms. Murdock’s journalistic and entrepreneurial achievements are impeccable, she is an individual who possesses a strong sense of community.  Her concern for the plight of young people in New York City, especially those from economically disadvantaged groups and communities of color, led her to create The Development and Finishing Institute.  

The Development and Finishing Institute, began in 2002.  D.F.I  is New York City’s only etiquette institute with a complete curriculum that combines social skills, arts and real life experiences.

Ms. Murdock has 33 years experience working with young people.  She recognizes their potential and works with them to provide the necessary skills for personal as well as professional success.

Ms. Murdock’s efforts and expertise as an etiquette expert has garnered national recognition.  She was featured in the December 2006 issue of O Magazine in an article entitled “O Guide To Really Excellent Behavior.”  She has also been acknowledged in The New York Times, The New Daily News and NBC Channel 4. In addition, Ms. Murdock is the author of two forthcoming books, WHAT'S UP? - A Guide for Tweens and Teens on Manners, Dining, Fashion and How to Get Along with Your Parents and The Young Ladies Guide To Everyday Etiquette.