An Irish woman’s story of love, terror, and a young nation coming apart.

I help communities build and nurture unlkely coalitions to solve urban problems in new ways.

I served as the interim Executive Director of this University of Minnesota Outreach/Engagement Center in North Minneapolis while the University conducted a national search for a permanent ED. The engagement work being undertaken there includes collaborative research on topics as diverse as sex-trafficking and trauma recovery; along with initiatives in economic development, art, violence prevention and place making. I worked to introduce a new program entitled "Neighborhood U" to provide residents with greater access to and with University resources.

Responsible for implementing , and engaging students and faculty in , two transformational urban revitalization projects in Syracuse, New York. The Connective Corridor is a multi million dollar urban streetscape project that is activating public spaces in the City and connecting University Hill with the arts and cultural venues downtown.. The Near Westside Initiative uses the power of art, technology and innovation with neighborhood values and culture to revitalize one of the poorest neighborhoods in the U.S. Both projects serve as platforms for "Scholarship in Action" by creating mutually beneficial, collaborations between the University and the community to solve the problems of post industrial cities in America and around the world.From Nancy Cantor, Chancellor, Rutgers University Newark Campus“Marilyn has a bias for action and the confidence to try new approaches to institutional engagement, economic development and community revitalization . She knows how to tailor strategies to local conditions and she forms productive and unlikely coalitions to get the job done. Marilyn’s successful track record at Syracuse with neighborhood groups, faculty from many disciplines, government at all levels and the business community resulted in over $50m in new investment in a neighborhood that had experienced no new investment in six decades. She also managed a $50 m urban streetscape project that reconnected the University with the City. Marilyn can see, plan and implement unique, win-win opportunities for Universities and other anchor institutions with their communities. “

Managed a team of economic development professionals seeking to recruit businesses and jobs to upstate New York. Helped existing companies to expand ; created and implemented marketing, site development, urban renewal and energy incentives and programs. Administered $8m annual economic development fund to assist communities and companies compete for business.

Senior Vice PresidentVice-President Government Relations

Started a Worker Reemployment Center that placed 800 displaced manufacturing workers in new jobs.

Wrote the college's first long range plan. Drafted the by-laws to start the Foundation.

Developed Section 8 Rental assistance consortium with 18 towns and villages and implemented housing rehabilitation program for seniors.