Board Secretary
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A seasoned senior consultant in the telecom/I.T. industry for over twenty-five years, Medea McGlynn brings a unique blend of professional acumen and personal dedication to her roles at OSB.
Her journey with the school began in 2015 when her son JJ, facing challenges with CVI and other disabilities, found a second home at OSB, despite the hour-long commute from their residence.
"I noticed right away how comfortable he was at OSB,” McGlynn says of JJ’s first exposure to the school. “At other schools, he seemed more tense and uptight, but it was noticeable how relaxed he was. It was just a fit. And I think the pool sealed the deal."
Driven by this positive experience, McGlynn became deeply involved in the OSB community. She first joined PERC, the school's home and school association, and later assumed the role of president in 2019. Her leadership caught the attention of Marjorie Stine, then board president, who invited McGlynn to join the board as a parent representative.
While she felt honored, McGlynn was apprehensive about joining the board. Her interaction with PERC was much less formal than a board meeting. But as a telecom executive, it was not all that unfamiliar. Ultimately, her extensive background interacting with executives across various industries prepared her well for the transition.
As a trustee and parent representative, McGlynn plays a crucial role in bridging the perspectives of families and the board. "I think it's important to have a parent rep on the board because I get a behind-the-scenes view of how goals are set,” she says. “But I also listen to parents and bring their concerns to the board. I want them to know they're being heard too. "
Beyond her board responsibilities, McGlynn champions staff appreciation and community engagement at OSB. She revitalized the Staff Appreciation Luncheon, elevating it with catering and volunteer service, aiming to convey a strong message of gratitude from the school community to its dedicated staff. And she is equally committed to reinvigorating PERC and expanding its impact after a period of dormancy.
Outside of OSB, McGlynn and her husband John are proud parents to twin boys and a seventeen-year-old daughter, all of whom have special needs. Their commitment extends to volunteering for causes like the Easter Seals Walk With Me and organizing local holiday food drives. She also treasures moments of relaxation with family, friends, and their beloved dog Violet, humorously noting, "Violet is definitely the favorite child!"
There are seven more years until JJ completes his education at OSB. McGlynn expects to be involved through all of it – and likely beyond. “We're not going anywhere,’’ she says. “We have roots at Overbrook."