George Kimes, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Community Providers Association (PCPA), is pleased to announce the hiring of Connell P. O’Brien, MEd, as the Association’s Children’s Policy Specialist. Mr. O’Brien will join the staff at the end of January.
O’Brien most recently served in several senior management level positions at Northeast Treatment Center in Philadelphia. Throughout his career he has served children, youth, and families in several different organizations including Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Child Guidance Center, and Haverford State Hospital. O’Brien has a Master’s degree from Temple University, as well as a Bachelor’s of Art from LaSalle University. O’Brien has also participated in many policy and planning activities for his employers as well as representing state and local professional and service organizations including The Philadelphia Alliance, PCPA, and the Pennsylvania Counsel for Children, Youth and Family Services. He is currently a member of the Delaware County MH/MR Advisory Board.
“Connell brings a wealth of diverse experiences to PCPA,” stated Kimes, “including extensive work on policy issues that extend across behavioral health, child welfare, juvenile justice, and special education.” He has long history of working in the provider community and brings that direct service experience to PCPA. Additionally, O’Brien has a long history of involvement at PCPA including serving on many committees and task forces. “He is a familiar and well respected figure to many PCPA members,” continued Kimes. O’Brien’s background in the Philadelphia service delivery system will also be helpful as PCPA looks to support the development of improved systems of care.
“While his background and experiences are very important for the Association, it is Connell’s passion for children and children’s services that is perhaps his most important attribute,” noted Kimes. “It is this passion that will be an asset as we move to meet our mission of service system improvement and provider advocacy.”
The PCPA Board, staff, and members welcome him to his new position with the Association.