New Full-Time Staff 2024

Kelly O’Brien

Office Assistant | President’s Office

Kelly O'Brien is no stranger to Kingsborough Community College. The Brooklyn native earned a degree in tourism and hospitality from KCC with plans to pursue a career in hotel management. “Before having my children, I worked at The Best Western Gregory Hotel in Bay Ridge for 10 years,” said the mother of three. “My experience in the hospitality industry honed my event planning and customer service skills, as well as my ability to think on my feet and adapt to dynamic situations.” In addition, she served as president of the Parent Association, where she organized numerous events and fundraisers, demonstrating an ability to lead and coordinate large-scale activities.

While being treated for kidney stones in June 2021, her medical team discovered something far more serious. She shared that her medical team diagnosed her with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, an aggressive form of blood cancer. Caught early, after two years of intense treatment, she is currently in remission. “Receiving this diagnosis was a shock and a turning point for me. It became a call to action to fight for my health and to appreciate life more deeply,” she recalled. “This journey has taught me the importance of resilience, the power of community, and cherishing every moment. I have been incredibly fortunate to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and the amazing doctors at Sloan Kettering and am now committed to facing any future challenges with optimism and determination.”

After taking several years off to raise her children and focus on her health, Kelly was eager to re-enter the workforce and sought a position with opportunities for growth and advancement. She joined KCC's Continuing Education department in May 2023 before moving to Buildings and Grounds in July 2023 and finally to the president’s office in September 2024, where she’s putting her skills to use in her new position as an office assistant in the president’s office.

Kelly manages the front desk, plans events, and supports the president and chief of staff. “The opportunity to work at KCC appealed to me because it allowed me to use my organizational and interpersonal skills in new ways,” she noted. “Job security and benefits were also significant factors in my decision. This role has provided me with a platform to grow professionally while continuing to support my family. Kingsborough has instilled in me the belief that learning is a lifelong journey.”

She’s looking forward to applying her skills in this new environment and contributing to the success of her team. “The opportunity to organize and manage events, combined with the chance to support senior executives, motivates me.”

Kelly believes the College’s location is truly exceptional: The beach is one of her favorite places in the world. “The sound of the waves, the feel of the sand, and the tranquility of the ocean are incredibly rejuvenating to me,” she explained. “Kingsborough's beautiful coastal location perfectly aligns with my love for the beach, making it an ideal place for me to spend my days.”