Morgan O'Sullivan reflects on his humble beginnings and love for Lynn University

Morgan O'Sullivan, Lynn University's financial aid communications and operations director, has a long history of giving back. Celebrating 20 years at Lynn, O'Sullivan gives back to the place where he "grew up" by consistently contributing to the institution's greatest needs. His journey from Ireland to Florida took him from his camp counselor role to the strategic position he is in today. As an avid Lynn supporter, he lovingly refers to the institution as a "magical place" and his second home.

O'Sullivan's journey at Lynn began in 1999. While studying at the University College Cork in Ireland, he attended a Summer Camp Recruitment Fair where he was recruited by then Pine Tree Camps directors Diane DiCerbo and Sue Merrill. At that time, Pine Tree Camps had been operating for 21 years and offering both day and overnight camp experiences. "Even though it wasn't a new camp, I knew nothing about it," O'Sullivan said. "I was thinking I was going to be working in the woods somewhere. When I got here, I was pleasantly surprised to be working on such a stunning campus."

As a camp counselor, he was in his element. He loved the camaraderie, teaching children new skills and meeting new people. For the next four years, O'Sullivan continued to travel back to Florida, working for Pine Tree Camps. When he wasn't in the Sunshine State, he was busy earning a bachelor's and master's degree at the University College Cork (UCC) in Ireland. His earnings as a camp counselor allowed him to travel, visiting both the east and west coasts of the U.S.

While traveling through the states by railway was an exciting adventure for O'Sullivan, perhaps what truly made his time in America the most special was meeting his soon-to-be wife—also a Pine Tree Camps counselor. Jenny, a Texas native, made staying in the U.S. that much more enticing for O'Sullivan. So, stay, he did.

By 2004, O'Sullivan moved full-time to the U.S. and secured a full-time position in student administrative services under Vivian Pearlman. With a background in education and business, one of the tasks he was asked to coordinate and teach was a "financial life skills" program, showing students the importance of saving money and financial stability. "Our team was invited to a training about teaching students financial life skills," said O'Sullivan. "We wanted to bring it to Lynn students, so they asked me to be one of the teachers of the course."

And with that, the Business Life Skills at Lynn University was born. O'Sullivan taught the course to students with his own flair, and over time rewrote facets of the program to align better with Lynn’s environment. He made the training interactive and had fun with the students, while also making quite an impact.

"I was walking down the hallway one day and a student told me that the program 'changed his life,'" said O'Sullivan. "I still remember that day."

For the next 19 years, O'Sullivan held seven different positions at Lynn. From adjunct professor to director of Student Financial Services, he's continued to grow with the university. He is well-versed in strategic planning, mentoring, team building and training, and speaks regularly at conferences about student financial services and financial life skills. In appreciation for a job well done, O'Sullivan was named Employee of the Month in 2012—a well-deserved honor for his dedication.

During his tenure, O'Sullivan has witnessed the construction of many beloved buildings, as well as the creation of Lynn's ever-evolving classroom technology. Many of those enhancements have a direct tie to donor contributions. "In 2007 when I started teaching in the classrooms, we didn't have iPads," said O'Sullivan. "In fact, nothing was interactive. Now, our classrooms are dedicated to innovative student learning. And we can thank many of our contributors for that."

Contributions also impact scholarships for students in need. O'Sullivan's position within the financial aid department gives him a bird's eye view of a student's financial well-being. "Many people believe that when a student comes to college they are financially stable," said O'Sullivan. "Unfortunately, that's not always the case, which is why I think it's important for people to understand that even the smallest amount can make big changes in the life of a student."

This direct view into the world of student finances has significantly impacted O'Sullivan and steered his decision to donate to the institution today. He's grateful for the opportunity to give back to Lynn knowing that his contributions directly impact the students he teaches, as well as to the campus he loves dearly. "Lynn has been good to me," said O'Sullivan. "I found my wife here; I've watched my children grow up here in these hallways. Giving back is deeply rewarding."

O'Sullivan has attributed his success at Lynn to his supportive environment. With the support, guidance and mentorship from Vivian Pearlman and Evelyn Nelson, O'Sullivan has not only thrived in his professional role, but also academically. In 2015, O'Sullivan enrolled into the doctoral program at Lynn's Donald E. and Helen L. Ross College of Education, where he earned his Ed.D. in educational leadership. The program teaches leadership skills needed to lead organizations—qualifications that O'Sullivan uses in his role today. "Lynn has given me so many opportunities and earning my doctorate was one of them," said O'Sullivan. "But I wouldn't have been able to achieve my goals without my teammates. They mean the world to me."

Many of Lynn's faculty and staff can say the same about O'Sullivan. He's known throughout the community for his jovial nature and welcoming disposition. Apart from his position at Lynn, O'Sullivan works hard to ensure new employees and students feel just as at home as he does.

"I want everyone to know how special Lynn is. Even my kids think that it's a magical place," said O'Sullivan. "So, to me, that means we're doing something right here!"

Join Morgan on Giving Day at one.lynn.edu.