In recognition of his leadership, philanthropy, loyalty and dedication to St. Mary’s College of Maryland, the College's Board of Trustees presented Michael P. O’Brien ’68 with the highest honor bestowed by the College — the Order of the Ark and Dove award. The presentation was made on Friday evening, Jan. 31 at the Board's dinner in the Nancy R. & Norton T. Dodge Performing Arts Center.
“Mike has always answered the call to serve on governing boards and support the College’s fundraising priorities, initiatives, and campaigns,” said Tuajuanda C. Jordan, PhD, SMCM president. “His loyalty and dedication remain beyond measure.”
The Order of the Ark and Dove was originally created in 1972 to honor those individuals who have given distinguished service to St. Mary’s College. O’Brien’s steadfast familial care to St. Mary’s College over the years has long been recognized by the campus community.
O’Brien served on the St. Mary’s College of Maryland Foundation Board of Directors from 2002 to 2005; the Board of Trustees from 2005 to 2017, including chairing the Buildings and Grounds Committee; and again, on the Foundation Board from 2017 to 2023, which included chairing the Joint Investment Advisory Committee.
During his tenure, the campus was reshaped by the addition of thoughtfully designed academic buildings, athletic facilities and student housing. His strong history of philanthropy to the College culminated in 2010 with the naming of the Michael P. O’Brien Athletics and Recreation Center to honor his legacy of support.
O’Brien would often come to campus to join the Noontime Hoops Crew or to be a fan in the stands at a Seahawks game.
O’Brien’s financial contributions to the College began modestly by providing shoes for the College’s basketball team -- a fitting gift from the MVP of the 1968 championship basketball team. His financial support grew to include substantial gifts for academic and athletic programs, scholarships, and the performing and visual arts.
Raised in Washington, D.C., O’Brien served in the U.S. Army and is a decorated Vietnam Veteran. In 1973, he graduated with honors and degrees in economics and accounting from the University of Maryland. He spent 10 years as a CPA with Ernst & Young before moving to Southern Maryland in 1980 where he founded O’Brien Realty Inc., where he continues to serve as president. O’Brien has also been deeply involved in the local community, including the Chamber of Commerce; the Southern Maryland Navy Alliance; The Patuxent Partnership; and the Southern Maryland Association of Realtors.
