About Me

Hi, I'm Megan O’Brien.I graduated from Northern Michigan University with a degree in Hospitality Management. While I had volunteered throughout high school and earlier in life, it was during college that I truly discovered my passion for service. I found that giving my time, talent, and treasure to help individuals and organizations was not only rewarding, but something I wanted to make a lifelong commitment to. After graduation, I began my professional career as an Event Coordinator with the Special Leisure Services Foundation, helping raise funds and awareness to support individuals with disabilities. That experience further strengthened my dedication to community impact and servant leadership.

​In 2017, I joined the Palatine Jaycees looking to make friends, serve my community, and expand my professional network. What I found was much more than I ever expected. The Jaycees became a second family and opened doors to incredible leadership opportunities, personal growth, and lifelong friendships. Since then, I have had the privilege of serving in numerous local, state, and national leadership roles, including Palatine Local Director and Poker Manager, Community Vice President, Chapter Management Vice President, Personal Assistant to the Illinois State President, Campaign Manager for the 2022 National Vice President campaign, JCI Membership Coach, JCI USA Membership Coach, Chapter President, Illinois Jaycees Programming Vice President and Chairwoman of the Board, Illinois Jaycees Administrative Vice President, and currently as the 2026 Illinois Jaycees State President. Through each role, I have learned that our Jaycee journey is truly what we make of it. Whether your passion is leading community projects, developing members, growing a chapter, or pursuing opportunities at the state, national, or international level, there is a place for everyone to learn, lead, and create impact.​Beyond the titles and leadership positions, I believe it is important to remember that we are more than Jaycees.

Behind every Jaycee journey is a person with passions, interests, and a life outside of the organization. When I'm not volunteering or leading projects, I enjoy baking, cooking, hiking, and camping. I also share my home with two wonderful dogs—Beau, a Blue Tick Coonhound/Retriever mix, and Teddy, a Rottweiler/Poodle mix—who keep life entertaining and ensure I spend plenty of time outdoors. The relationships, experiences, and opportunities I have gained through the Jaycees have helped shape who I am today, and I am grateful for every chance to serve, grow, and help others discover their own path within this incredible organization.