Chicago is mourning the loss of Malik Murray, a respected financial executive, former athlete, devoted alumnus, and community leader. Malik passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, generosity, and heartfelt service. He was Senior Vice President and Head of Business Development at Ariel Investments, where he worked for over two decades.
News of his passing was confirmed by Saint Ignatius College Prep, where Malik was a proud graduate of the Class of 1992. In a moving tribute, the school described him as “a man for others” — someone whose deep ties to his alma mater shaped a lifetime of leadership and compassion.
“Malik was a passionate Ignatian,” the school shared in their statement. “He cultivated the ties he established as a young man at 1076 West Roosevelt Road in ways that served current students and alumni… We will so dearly miss his caring presence and his true understanding of the phrase, ‘Ignatius begins with I and ends with us.’”
Malik Murray joined Ariel Investments in 2004 and served in multiple leadership roles over his 21-year tenure, most recently as Senior Vice President, Head of Business Development. He focused on institutional business development and client services, becoming a trusted face in Chicago’s financial sector.
Before Ariel, Malik spent eight years at Bank One Brokerage, where he was the lead broker on the European shift for international exchange-traded products. His strategic mind and deep industry knowledge earned him the respect of peers across the financial world.
Malik held a Bachelor of Science in Finance and an MBA in Finance, both from DePaul University, where he was also a standout athlete on the men’s basketball team. He continued to serve DePaul throughout his life, sitting on the Board of Trustees and the Department of Finance Advisory Board.
In addition, Malik held board positions with the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Securities Professionals, and Ariel Community Academy, always focusing on opportunities to uplift youth and underrepresented communities.
While Malik’s professional accolades are many, those who knew him personally speak most often of his humility, kindness, and unwavering loyalty to his community.
At Saint Ignatius College Prep, Malik served on the Board of Trustees from 2017 to 2023, was the founding chair of the School Culture DEI Committee, and a founding member of the Tolton Society — a group focused on inclusion and celebrating Black excellence. He never missed a chance to support his fellow alumni, often highlighting their successes on social media with pride and affection.
His friend Alan King, a DJ and fellow Chicago native, wrote:
“The hits just don’t seem to stop coming. And this one is really tough. R.I.P. to my friend, former DePaul basketball player and Ariel Investments’ Malik Murray. My deepest condolences to Malik’s family and loved ones.”
Malik’s passing leaves a tremendous void in the Chicago community, in the halls of Ariel Investments, and at institutions like DePaul and Saint Ignatius that he loved so deeply. He was a mentor, role model, and friend to many — a man who led with integrity and lifted others every step of the way.
He is survived by his family, loved ones, colleagues, and countless friends who will carry forward the lessons he taught through his life of quiet strength and meaningful action.
| Name | Malik Murray |
|---|---|
| Hometown | Chicago, Illinois |
| Education | DePaul University (B.S. & MBA in Finance) |
| Career | Ariel Investments – 21+ years |
| Roles | SVP, Business Development; DEI Advocate |
| Boards | DePaul, St. Ignatius, NASP, Chamber |
| Athletics | Former DePaul Men’s Basketball Player |
FAQs
What did Malik Murray do at Ariel Investments?
He served as Senior Vice President, Head of Business Development, focusing on institutional client relationships and strategic growth.
What schools was Malik involved with?
He was deeply involved with both Saint Ignatius College Prep and DePaul University, serving in leadership roles and mentorship capacities.