Rosemary O’Connor | Women to Watch Honoree
- Year: 2026
- Location: WomanUp and Celebrate Southeast Michigan
Executive Director of Racquet Up Detroit
Rosemary O’Connor is the Executive Director of Racquet Up Detroit, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding opportunity for youth through a long-term, holistic model that blends squash, academic support, and mentorship. She is a graduate of Wellesley College, where she served as captain of the varsity squash team. Rosemary has spent over a decade growing with Racquet Up Detroit, helping shape it into a cornerstone of opportunity for Detroit students. She began her career in direct service, working closely with students, and has since held a range of leadership roles including Director of Strategic Impact and Chief Programs Officer before stepping into the Executive Director role in 2025.
Throughout her tenure, Rosemary has been instrumental in expanding Racquet Up Detroit’s reach and impact. She has helped guide the organization through significant growth, including the transition into a 19,000-square-foot, purpose-built facility, the development of new community-facing programs, and the strengthening of partnerships with schools and funders. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to both program excellence and long-term sustainability, with a focus on ensuring that students not only succeed academically but also thrive as confident, capable leaders.
Outside of her professional work, Rosemary enjoys staying active through sports, particularly racquet sports, and spending time with her partner and children, often finding the same sense of community and connection in both.
