“I was moved to get involved with CV and to be a donor because I was impressed with the work they do and impact CV makes on the students they serve. Ensuring college access and support to first-gen students is incredibly important to me and I am blessed to be a small part of it.” – Michael Fournier
Michael Fournier is a CV supporter, friend, and previous board member! He is truly a superstate in his community and has been in a number of Senior Leadership roles! Now as a retiree, he supports small to mid-size non-profits around Capacity Building, Executive Coaching and Professional Development! Read his interview below!
Could you tell me a little about yourself (where are you from, where do you work, hobbies or anything you’d like to share)?
Grew up in Mansfield, Mass. part of a family of 8. Very fortunate to have had a wonderful upbringing and extraordinary parents. Went to Westfield State College where I got my BA in Psychology then my MSW from BU. In 1976 I started as a Lifeguard at the local YMCA and that turned out to be a wonderful 38 years as a Y Professional leading me to RI in 1996 in a variety of Senior Leadership roles (Chief Strategy Officer, VP-Leadership Development and Chief Operating Officer) until I retired in 2014. Since then I have provided consultative support for small to mid-sized non-profits around Capacity Building (Board and Fund Development) as well as Executive Coaching and Professional Development Support Services.
I am married to husband David and we have been together for 16 years.
I am an avid Boston Sports fan and enjoy the local College Sports scene as well.
What was your educational journey like and what advice do you wish you had as a first-year college student?
My college journey was a rough one as I got caught up in the social scene a bit too much and didn’t really get on track with my academics until Junior year. Thank god I stepped it up in time. I certainly would encourage young students to balance the lifestyle fun with the academic focus.
What moved you to donate to CV and why do you continue to support?
I was moved to get involved with CV and to be a donor because I was impressed with the work they do and impact CV makes on the students they serve. Ensuring college access and support to first-gen students is incredibly important to me and I am blessed to be a small part of it.
Do you think CV is an important resource to the community and why?
I am very impressed by the way in which CV engages with students, families and all of the key stakeholders. CV is an important asset to the city and one that needs to be sustained for years to come.
A huge thank you to Michael for all the work he has done and continues to do in the community! We truly appreciate him taking the time out to do this interview and for his continue support of College Visions students!! #TeamCV
