Board of Directors | Meet the members

In March of 2009, the Board of Directors was established and their work began to fortify the organization.

Karen Hunter | Chairperson

Karen Hunter | Chairperson

Center.

Committee(s): Strategic Planning

Background: Real Estate Development, Business Manager

Why OK?: The passion with which OK came together spills over into everything it has generated since inception. The
vitality of the Board President, Executive Director, Auxilliary Board and Staff motivates everyone involved. What they offer the Warriors and the Community is true partnership in the Circle of Real Life.

Favorite OK memory: At last year’s Gala, the Warriors were the rock stars, showing off their well-practiced dance
numbers in front of 400 people! Watching them shine and glow in front of such an audience is a testament to how
comfortable they are in their surroundings, and how the OP/RF/FP Community embraces their uniqueness.

Claudia Marciniak | Vice President

Claudia Marciniak | Vice President

 

Committee(s): Real Estate, Strategic Planning, Phase II Planning

Background: Banker, Senior Vice President/Division Head

Why OK?: I enjoy being a part of a dedicated and dynamic organization that wants to change the status quo in a powerful way and along the way, we have a lot of fun too.

Favorite OK memory: Marching in the St. Patricks parade each year with the OK entourage growing every year.

Thomas McShane | Treasurer

Thomas McShane | Treasurer

 

Background: Investment Consulting, Investment Consultant Director

Why OK?: I do what I do because Mike and Phil Carmody asked me. I continue to do what I do because of the Warriors!

Favorite OK memory: Seeing the OK Warriors playing a basketball game at Ascension gym. I was there for a meeting and peeked in the gym and there they were running up and down the court.

Terry Brown  |  Secretary

Terry Brown | Secretary

On left, with Tom McShane.

Committee(s): Development, Nominating

Background: Retired Journalist, Adjunct Professor

Why OK?: Mike Carmody told me early on about his plans for Opportunity Knocks, and I tried to help him think through some of the issues in forming a nonprofit. Also, the Browns and the Carmodys have been friends for many years, starting with Little League baseball through OPRF sports.

Favorite OK memory: There are many, but, to name a few: being a contestant at Family Feud night, seeing the Warriors dance at the Gala and stuffing hamburgers at the OK Classic where I also watched several of the Warriors play on a team.

Michelle Anderson

Michelle Anderson

Committee(s): Finance

Background:  Accounting

Why OK?:  I am a board member with OK because I want to see Opportunity Knocks funnel forward to realize it’s full potential. There is tremendous heart in this organization. Glad to be apart.

Favorite OK memory:  I love to dance with the OK program participants at the Gala. I particularly enjoyed dancing with Johnny on his birthday; he’s quite the dancer!

William Finn

William Finn

On right, with Susan Finn.

Committee(s): Strategic Planning

Background: Podiatric Physician

Why OK?: My daughter has special needs. OK is a fantastic organization for services for those with special needs. I am
very honored to be a part of this group.

Favorite OK memory: The Gala and what it means to the warriors and our organization; Seeing Mike Carmondy’s wild
outfits.

Mike McGarry

Mike McGarry


Committee(s):
 Development Committee; Strategic Development Committee; Full Circle Enterprise Committee

Background: Custon Training Development Company, President

Why OK?: To enable the OK staff to implement and grow programs for these exceptional young adults.

Favorite OK memory: I thoroughly enjoy volunteering as a referee for Special Olympics basketball at OPRF High School. It was my first connection to the OK Warriors. I gained a tremendous amount of respect for how they competed. In my opinion, it was the truest representation of sport that I have ever witnessed.

Joe Milburn

Joe Milburn

 

Background: Attorney; BA from Northern Illinois University, Juris Doctor from Loyola University in Chicago, Admitted to Illinois Bar in 1977

Why OK?: My son, Patrick, is a participant and benefits greatly from the OK programs. He and other individuals with disabilities need these services. Since Illinois has totally failed them, it is up to parents and others to step in and help. So, here I am, along with my wife, Carol, Patrick’s brother, James, and so many other good people.

Favorite OK memory: Attending a Wolve’s hockey game with OK Staff and participants in a private box. It was a great
experience seeing these kids have such a great time together.

HISTORY & MISSION

Interested in learning more about the history of Opportunity Knocks?

Auxiliary Board

The  Auxiliary Board is a group of 25-35 young adults who volunteer their supportive efforts to the planning, promotion and execution of the major fundraising events of Opportunity Knocks. These events are accountable for nearly 50% of the funding that supports the organization.