John O'Brien

John O'Brien is the President and CEO of EDUCAUSE, a nonprofit association dedicated to advancing higher education through technology innovation. He has held this position since May 2015.13

Background and Education

Dr. O'Brien holds a bachelor's degree in English from Augustana University, a master's degree in Anglo-Irish Literature from Trinity College Dublin, and a doctorate in English from the University of Minnesota.2

Career Highlights

Higher Education Leadership::

• Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs at Minnesota State Colleges and Universities
• President of North Hennepin Community College (2010-2013)
• Acting President of Century College (2008-2009)
• Academic Vice President/Chief Academic Officer at Century College (2005-2008)

Technology and Innovation::

• Associate Vice Chancellor for Instructional Technology at Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (1999-2005)
• Led the "Students First" initiative to redesign online systems for improved student experience

Teaching Experience::

• 15 years of college/university teaching, primarily in literature and composition
• Taught at various institutions including Normandale Community College, Augsburg University, University of Minnesota, University of St. Thomas, and Augustana University

Role at EDUCAUSE

As President and CEO of EDUCAUSE, Dr. O'Brien:

• Oversees a membership of over 2,000 colleges, universities, and organizations across 41 countries
• Leads the organization in its mission to advance higher education through technology innovation
• Speaks and writes on topics related to higher education, technology, and their intersection13

Personal

Dr. O'Brien lives in Seattle with his spouse Kathryn and has three children: Nathan, Alex, and Thessaly.1