Rob Kilroy Named New Chair of the Mitchell Institute’s Senator’s Circle 
The Mitchell Institute has named Rob Kilroy chair of the Senator’s Circle, the Institute’s advisory group that supports the mission, values, and strategic direction by promoting programs, cultivating networks of supporters and collaborators, and advocating for the Institute across personal and professional circles. While not the governing board, the Senator’s Circle serves as a trusted group of ambassadors and advisors dedicated to sustaining the Institute’s impact for future generations.
Kilroy assumes the chairmanship with a deep respect for the Institute’s history and a clear view of its potential. His connection to Senator Mitchell is personal, tracing back to family ties and a shared path through Bowdoin College. His professional life has been defined by capital raising and organizational leadership, where he learned that successful philanthropy begins with belief. “When you believe in the quality of an organization, the work becomes sharing that story with those who can help it grow,” Kilroy said. “The Mitchell Institute is as high-quality as they come.”
He envisions a Circle that both honors its Maine roots and builds relationships beyond the state—with foundations, family offices, and institutions across the country that are searching for organizations with impact as direct and measurable as the Mitchell Institute. He also sees the Circle as a partner to the board and staff, ready to advise, to raise capital, and to support Scholars in new ways. “With the proven track record of this organization, backed by thousands of inspiring Scholars who have lifted their trajectories in life, we are on the verge of substantially growing and energizing the Institute’s network of support,” said Jared Cash, president and CEO of the Mitchell Institute. “Leaders like Rob are key to marshalling the Senator’s Circle in ways that bring significance to what we can extend to Mitchell Scholars.”
Kilroy views the moment as both an honor and an obligation. “It is personally a blessing to be involved with such a worthy mission,” he said, adding that he hopes to make Senator George J. Mitchell proud.
Honoring Marjorie Bride’s Leadership and Legacy
Marjorie Bride concludes her impressive tenure as chair, marking a leadership transition that reflects the strength of the community. “As an Institute, we are fortunate to be led by an inspiring vision shaped and put in motion by one of the most respected leaders in our state’s history,” Cash said.
Bride’s relationship with the Institute began nearly at its founding. As an early board member and longtime supporter of Senator George J. Mitchell, she recognized that the Circle could keep past board members engaged, welcome new voices, and encourage generosity that would ripple across the state. Her leadership was marked by persistence, creativity, and care. She championed gatherings that brought people into the mission, encouraged friend-raising and fundraising, and made a personal commitment through a legacy gift that strengthens the emergency fund for Scholars facing unexpected challenges. “We are fortunate to have devoted leaders like Margie, whose care and persistence ensured that each Scholar could see results from the generosity of the Circle,” Cash said. “She has embodied the founding vision of Senator Mitchell and shown how relationships are at the heart of progress.”
Her career in alumni travel and philanthropy taught her that progress rests on relationships. She brought that wisdom to the Circle, ensuring that each member felt their contribution mattered and that Scholars could see the results. In doing so, she carried forward the spirit of Senator Mitchell’s founding vision and helped grow the Institute from an idea in 1995 into an organization with statewide impact. Bride expressed complete confidence in Kilroy’s ability to lead with energy and conviction. “Rob is not going to hesitate to reach out and build connections,” she said. “I see the Circle becoming stronger and more active under his leadership.”
For 30 years, the Mitchell Institute has helped Maine students overcome barriers to higher education. By providing financial support, personal guidance, and a lifelong network, the Institute empowers Mitchell Scholars to graduate, build meaningful careers, and strengthen Maine’s communities and workforce through their success and leadership. Learn more.