Board Spotlight: Marion Candrea

Meet Marion Candrea! Marion is the Associate Vice President of Internal Audit and Advisory Services at Boston University, and the Club has been fortunate to have Marion serve in various volunteer roles over the years.

How long have you been serving on the board?

I have been involved with the Club for about 10 years. I first started volunteering on the finance committee, and for the past seven years I have been serving as the board’s treasurer. As a professional, I have been working in audit and accounting for my entire career. My involvement with the Club began as what I thought would be a short-term assist, reviewing a chart of accounts structure. It turned into over a decade of watching the Club grow and thrive in its programs, outreach, and impact within the community.

Can you share a memorable moment during your time as a board member that highlights the impact of the organization on the community?

Prior to my involvement with the Club, I was volunteering with a youth-serving nonprofit in NYC. Living in New Jersey, most of my volunteer service was performed remotely, so my only witness to the program’s success came through reports and photos. When I began volunteering at the Club, I was able to be on site, visiting both the Asbury Park and Red Bank Units during board or finance committee meetings. At these visits, I would see the kids at the Club participating in the programs, playing with friends, and having a great time. I had the opportunity to interact with the children we were serving. I have a very specific memory from around that time, when I was attending my son’s Pee Wee football game and a Club kid from the opposing team recognized me, gave me the biggest smile, and ran right over to me! I couldn’t believe this child not only recognized me, but also had the confidence and excitement to say hello! Such a simple moment, but I walked away with tears in my eyes because it really struck me how committed this program is to making an impact right in its own backyard. Committed to being embedded within this community—my community—and investing in the well-being of these kids.

Outside of your involvement in the Club, what are some of your hobbies or interests?

I work in higher education and am passionate about lifelong learning! I’m heavily involved in my industry association and connecting with peers from hundreds of colleges and universities across the country. You will find no shortage of college mugs in my pantry from all of the campuses I’ve had the privilege of visiting! I also enjoy fitness and running. Setting goals and trying new races (both type and distances) is very motivating for me. I’ve run several road races as fundraisers for the Club over the years, which has been fantastic because I get to do something I love (running) to raise money for an organization that I love (the Club!).