Mike has led KCC since 2015 with his signature blend of humor, intelligence, and compassion. We are proud to honor him at our first ever virtual Gala!

Celebrating Our Honoree:

Michael O’Conor, KCC Board Chair

It is fitting that we honor Michael O’Conor, Kennedy Children’s Center Board Chair, at our first ever virtual fundraiser. Mike has been with KCC every step of the way during these difficult months. While he is always our biggest cheerleader, his compassionate leadership in this time of crisis has helped KCC respond flexibly and meaningfully to the needs of our students and families. It is our joy and privilege to honor him.

Mike first joined the Board in 2002; somewhat by accident. His good friend Marty Keating, then a Board member at KCC, invited him to lunch. As Mike fondly tells it, “I expected to be hit up for a donation to one of the many nonprofits that Marty supported.” Instead, Marty asked if Mike would visit a preschool with him. They spent an hour touring KCC’s former Manhattan site. 

Mike said that other than the birth of his children, he had never been so moved in his life.

When they stepped outside he asked Marty: How much do you need? But Marty’s reply wasn’t what Mike expected. He said, We don't need your money. We need your time. KCC needed help from caring people at the Board level. Mike didn’t think he had time to spare. Lucky for us, he changed his mind!

After that tour, Mike became one of KCC’s most active and enthusiastic Board members. This culminated in his unanimous election as Board Chair in 2015. It is a responsibility that he takes seriously, and also joyfully. He oversees KCC’s budget, and sits right down with the Teacher Assistants at our annual staff party. He advises on strategic development, and makes a point to remember every one of our program directors’ names. 

Mike is supported by his loving wife, Pam, whose background in education helped spur his interest in KCC. He has three wonderful children and two beautiful grandchildren. A retired Wall Street business manager with over 30 years of experience, he has brought immeasurable value to KCC. What is more, his sense of humor and compassion are living embodiments of our mission. 

Mike describes his board tenure as enriching his life beyond anything he could have imagined. 

We say: the feeling is mutual.