During the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (April of 2020) Mark made his return to gaming after a decade long sabbatical. He saw an opportunity to equip gamers of all generations and backgrounds with the access and tools to develop a well-rounded set of skills and experiences to take into the world. He founded Affinity Esports with his sights set on creating spaces for happier and healthier gaming.Originally trained in Graphic Design at Barry University, Mark has blended a passion for creativity, business, and collaboration, which has created a successful track record of organizations, communities, and relationships. In addition to Affinity Esports, he is the Co-Founder of Studio 89/91 (Creative Agency) and The Kilpatrick Group (Management Consulting Firm). Prior to 2021, Mark co-founded Urban FT, helping to grow the business to a respected space in fintech, serving more than 500 financial institutions.An award-winning and published entrepreneur, Mark has been featured on Quora Sessions, Apple News, Inc., and Forbes. He has been recognized as a Distinguished Alumni by Barry University and by Forbes as a 30 Under 30 honoree Enterprise Technology and Big Money. In February of 2020, he hosted the 18th Executive Leadership Forum for Barry University’s Andreas School of Business. His previous venture, Urban FT, was placed on the Inc. 5000 two consecutive years (2020 and 2021) and was recognized by American Banker as one of the Best Places to Work in Fintech (2021).A ‘small town kid’ at heart, Mark is a relentless advocate of 'paying it forward' to those people, communities, and institutions that have guided him. He continues to demonstrate support for his alma mater through annual giving, engagement with campus initiatives, and involvement in his local chapter. In addition, he has established an adult soccer league, coordinated charity soccer tournaments, fundraised for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, advocated for the Movember Foundation, and donated to Pantene’s Beautiful Lengths program.Mark is married to his Barry University sweetheart, Emily, who has been life’s best partner through the many exciting and sometimes challenging twists and turns that life has to offer. They have two wonderful daughters, Zoey and Lily, who have filled their life with smiles, laughter, and love. In May of 2021, the family made the jump from New York City to their ‘little piece’ of paradise in Sandy Hook, CT. Mark’s philosophy is centered around balance, compassion, and unity, placing people and genuine interaction at the forefront of all situations.