Marc Abelard
Canton,MA
Summary
Dynamic leader with a passion for continuous learning and innovation. Known for leveraging analytical thinking and creativity to solve problems and deliver high-impact solutions in fast-paced environments. Expert in grant acquisition and cross-sector collaboration, fostering organizational growth and enhancing behavioral health services.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Consultant
Building Bridges Education, INC
Boston, Massachusetts
01.2024 - Current
- Analyzed key performance indicators to identify effective strategies.
- Provided advice on operational processes, business development initiatives, organizational changes, and other areas of improvement.
- Evaluated existing systems and processes against industry best practices to enhance efficiency.
Director of Strategic Partnerships | The Center for Workforce Development
William James College
Newton, MA
01.2017 - 01.2024
- Increased funding by 80% through leadership of cross-sector workforce initiatives, establishing the college as a behavioral health policy leader.
- Facilitated collaboration between cross-functional teams, including sales, operations, finance, and legal.
- Directed implementation of $3M+ grant from Mass General Brigham to expand Behavioral Health Service Corps.
- Secured $690K grant from Boston Children’s Hospital to enhance behavioral health pipeline and combat stigma.
- Launched the region’s first Bachelor of Psychology and Human Services program; achieved successful NEASC accreditation.
- Cultivated high-impact partnerships with federal agencies, academic institutions, and community organizations to strengthen initiatives.
Director of Partnerships and Community Engagement
West Roxbury Academy
Boston, MA
01.2011 - 01.2017
- Oversaw $18M athletic renovation project, enhancing community engagement with city and school leaders.
- Established partnerships with Microsoft and Aditi Technologies to launch student-built mobile app initiative.
- Increased graduation rates by 50% through data-driven Operation Graduation initiative in collaboration with William James College.
Director of Partnerships & External Affairs
The Engineering School
Boston, MA
01.2007 - 01.2011
- Co-authored MOU with Harvard SEAS to establish a pioneering STEM pipeline for underrepresented students.
- Secured over "$305K" in grants to enhance curriculum development and college access initiatives.
- Designed and launched the inaugural dual enrollment program with Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology.
Education
Ph.D. - Social Policy
Brandeis University, Heller School For Social Policy And Management
12.2025
Master of Science - Social Policy
Brandeis University, Heller School
01.2024
Master of Arts - Educational Leadership
Northeastern University
01.2011
Bachelor of Arts - Community Development
University of Massachusetts Boston
01.2000
Skills
- Strategic partnerships
- Program innovation
- Higher education leadership
- Grant acquisition
- Cross-sector collaboration
- Workforce development in behavioral health
- Public policy advocacy
- Organizational growth strategies
- Stakeholder engagement
Affiliations
- Awardee: Providers’ Council Business Partner of the Year | Harvard CAP Leadership Evaluation A+ | Behavioral Health Service Corps (BHSC)
Core Competences
- Strategic Partnerships
- Program Innovation
- Higher Education Leadership
- Grant Acquisition
- Cross-Sector Collaboration
- Behavioral Health Workforce Development
- Public Policy
- Organizational Growth
- Stakeholder Engagement
Accomplishments
- U.S. Marine Corps Veteran – National Defense, Humanitarian Service, Navy Commendation, Combat Action Medals
References
References available upon request.
Grants And Recognition
- Co-Administrator, $3M Mass General Brigham Grant
- Co-PI, $690K Boston Children’s Hospital Community Health Collaborative Grant
- Awardee: Providers’ Council Business Partner of the Year
- Harvard CAP Leadership Evaluation A+
- Behavioral Health Service Corps (BHSC)
- U.S. Marine Corps Veteran – National Defense, Humanitarian Service, Navy Commendation, Combat Action Medals
Timeline
Consultant
Building Bridges Education, INC
01.2024 - Current
Director of Strategic Partnerships | The Center for Workforce Development
William James College
01.2017 - 01.2024
Director of Partnerships and Community Engagement
West Roxbury Academy
01.2011 - 01.2017
Director of Partnerships & External Affairs
The Engineering School
01.2007 - 01.2011
Ph.D. - Social Policy
Brandeis University, Heller School For Social Policy And Management
Master of Science - Social Policy
Brandeis University, Heller School
Master of Arts - Educational Leadership
Northeastern University
Bachelor of Arts - Community Development
University of Massachusetts Boston