Honoring a Legacy of Service
A Life of Deliberate Action
Maureen’s life’s work is a testament to her commitment to creating a kinder and more accessible world for those who have traditionally been disenfranchised. Whether supporting individuals with disabilities, those facing economic hardship, or those recovering from addiction, Maureen dedicates her time, talent, and treasure to foster second chances and better outcomes.
Recognition of Service
We are thrilled to announce that Maria College has selected Maureen as the recipient of the prestigious McAuley Award for Distinguished Service. This honor, to be presented at the 2025 commencement, recognizes those who have tirelessly served the disenfranchised. This award holds special significance for our family, as both of Maureen’s parents, Frank E. O’Brien and Mary Beth Casey O’Brien, are past recipients. This truly is an award for the generations.
Establishing the Generations Scholarship
In celebration of this achievement, we are pleased to announce the establishment of The Maureen E. O’Brien Generations Scholarship at Maria College. This scholarship aims to support students, particularly:
- Non-traditional learners
- Working mothers
- Individuals with disabilities
- Those retraining for new careers
Supporting Our Community
Maria College graduates approximately 200 nurses annually, providing vital healthcare support to our community. The majority of students are non-traditional, averaging 35 years old, with 75% coming from underserved backgrounds and 78% relying on financial aid.
In 2017, Maureen spearheaded the development of the Frank E. O’Brien Jr. Student Success Center, which offers essential services, including:
- Academic tutoring
- Writing assistance
- Resume building
- Stress management
- Emergency funding
- Financial literacy programs
These resources are crucial as New York faces a projected nursing shortage of 39,000 by 2030, highlighting the urgent need for dedicated, well-trained professionals in our local healthcare system.
Join Us in Making a Difference
We invite you to support The Generations Scholarship. Your contribution will significantly impact the future of our community’s healthcare workforce and help non-traditional students achieve their dreams.
Contact Us
For more information on how to contribute to the Maureen E. O’Brien Generations Scholarship, please reach out to us at alumni@mariacollege.edu. Your generosity will help shape a brighter future for many.