John O'Brien

John O'Brien has a diverse work experience spanning various positions in the education sector. John started their career as an English faculty member at Normandale Community College, where they also served as the faculty association president and vice-president. John then moved on to work at the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Office of the Chancellor as an Associate Vice Chancellor. After that, they held roles such as Academic Vice President/Chief Academic Officer at Century College and Acting President at Century College. John O'Brien also worked as the Students First Director at Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, overseeing a statewide technology project. John later served as President at North Hennepin Community College, where they led the institution's faculty, staff, and students. John also had a position as Senior Vice Chancellor, responsible for academic and student affairs across the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. Most recently, they became the President and CEO of EDUCAUSE, an international higher education technology association. Additionally, they currently serve as a Regent at Augsburg University.

John O'Brien holds a Ph.D. in Literature, which they obtained from the University of Minnesota from 1989 to 1994. Prior to that, they pursued an M.Phil. degree in Anglo-Irish Literature at Trinity College Dublin from 1986 to 1987. John completed their undergraduate studies at Augustana University (SD) from 1980 to 1984, where they earned a BA degree in English and Theatre. Additionally, John O'Brien possesses a black belt in Martial Arts, having achieved their first degree in 1990 and second degree from 1988 to 1994 at the National Karate Schools. John O'Brien also holds a certification as an EDUCAUSE Review Author, obtained in January 2021 from EDUCAUSE institution.