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Ryan O'Donoghue
Executive Director at First Descents
Ryan O'Donoghue is the Chief Executive Officer of First Descents, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing outdoor adventures for young adults impacted by cancer and other serious health conditions. He has been with First Descents since December 2013, initially joining as Executive Director before ascending to the CEO role. Under his leadership, the organization has seen significant growth and recognition, including being named a Top 10 CNN Hero and receiving accolades from ColoradoBiz and OUTSIDE magazine for its workplace culture.12
Background and Experience:
O'Donoghue's career is marked by a blend of nonprofit and for-profit experience. He founded Rise Above It (RAI), an organization focused on adolescent and young adult oncology, after losing his brother to cancer. His work at RAI led him to collaborate with First Descents through the LIVE STRONG Young Adult Alliance. Prior to his nonprofit endeavors, he worked as a strategy consultant at Accenture, managing accounts for Fortune 500 companies across various industries.123
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Finance and Technology Management from Georgetown University, where he was also captain of the football team and an Academic All-American in 2000.12
Current Roles:
In addition to his role at First Descents, O'Donoghue also serves as CEO of Stoke Broker, a for-profit subsidiary that creates adventure experiences while funneling profits back into First Descents to support its mission. This innovative model allows the organization to expand its impact while maintaining financial sustainability.34
Ryan O'Donoghue's leadership is characterized by a strong commitment to community engagement and collaboration within the nonprofit sector, aiming to enhance the quality of life for young adults facing health challenges through transformative outdoor experiences.3



