Bringing community, connection and commitment … meet Karen O’Sullivan, Boston PAL’s Executive Director!
O’Sullivan’s appointment follows a 12-month strategic planning process that has resulted in a new vision for the 33-year-old organization. Working closely with Mayor Martin Walsh and BPD Commission William Gross, under O’Sullivan’s direction and leadership, PAL is poised to grow exponentially, significantly increasing its impact upon the young people and residents of Boston.
With a mission of fostering a culture of trust and respect between the community and the BPD through programs that promote character development, improve educational outcomes and reduce crime, PAL offers the private partnership needed to enhance the BPD’s nationally-lauded model of Community Policing.
“Since its founding in 1985, PAL has played an invaluable role in connecting cops with kids in our communities,” said William Gross, Commissioner, Boston Police Department. “Today, a crucial element of our Community Policing strategy is connecting with the city’s at-risk youth through educational, social, cultural and athletic activities to promote an environment of mutual trust and respect. PAL epitomizes the best of a public/private partnership designed to make Boston a safe city for all of our residents.”
Born and raised in South Boston, O’Sullivan attended The Newton Country Day School followed by Duke University, where she was an All-American tennis player. A gifted fundraiser and manager, O’Sullivan most recently served as VP, Philanthropy at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, RI, following a 12-year career culminating in the role VP of Business Development at the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.
“As a Board, PAL has spent significant resources over the past several months developing and executing a new strategic plan for the organization moving forward,” said Chip Batchelder, PAL
Board Chairman. “It was imperative that we find a leader not only with a deep understanding of the City of Boston, but also able to drive implementation of the strategic plan. Karen was our unanimous choice.”
Media Contact: Marlo Fogelman, marlo marketing 617-375-9700
