Business Networking Group-Momentum Mesa

Mark O'Brien is an Arizona Licensed electrical contractor working in this industry since 1980

I am the Founder and now Transition Advisor for College Bound AZ. As the former ED, I led the organization from inception to becoming a vital force in guiding underserved youth toward higher education in the Greater Phoenix Metropolitan area. I have been responsible for shaping the strategic vision, building community partnerships, and securing funding to ensure the sustainability and growth of our programs.  My key areas of emphasis are organizational leadership to establish and scale College Bound AZ, developing trademarked programs that provide mentorship, academic resources, and scholarships to first-generation and disadvantaged youth.  My Program Development skills designed and implemented college readiness initiatives, focusing on financial literacy and leadership development, resulting in increased enrollment rates for participants.  My Community Engagement has built strategic alliances with educational institutions, businesses, local government, and other nonprofits to create pathways for student success. Operational Management results in budget planning and management, staff development, and oversight of daily operations to ensure the organization runs smoothly. Leveraging Impact and Advocacy, my aim is to create education equity through higher education, amplifying the voices of underserved students and positioning College Bound AZ as a trusted resource in the community. Board Development requires I recruit and collaborate with a diverse Board of Directors, fostering governing practices that align with the organization's growth and mission. Through Fundraising and Sponsorships, I have secured significant funding through grants, events, partnerships, and donor engagement, ensuring long-term sustainability. Through visionary leadership, I have driven College Bound AZ to empower students, remove barriers to education, and build a legacy of academic achievement within the community.  In recognition of these efforts, I was honored with the Calvin C. Goode Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to my enduring commitment to equity, education, and transformative community impact.