Mary Ellen Dobransky

EVP of Programs and Regional Impact

"I love connecting people in rural communities with the resources and coaching that help them see what’s possible. Empowering individuals creates ripples of opportunity that strengthen entire communities."

About Mary Ellen Dobransky

Mary Ellen Dobransky is the Executive Vice President for Programs and Regional Impact at Future Plans. Having grown up in rural Appalachia, she is dedicated to advancing equity and opportunity, with a particular focus on serving under-resourced and rural communities. In her role at Future Plans, she leads initiatives that help individuals of all ages in rural areas discover their unique strengths and aspirations, connecting them with personalized coaching and resources that foster hope, purpose, and long-term success. Her work is rooted in a commitment to removing barriers, expanding access, and empowering local voices to drive positive change in communities that are often overlooked and underserved.

Throughout her career, Mary Ellen has held impactful leadership roles in education, including recognition as an ISTE Emerging Leader for technology integration, leading a STEAM school to a STEM Programs of Excellence Award from the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC), and serving as Associate Director for Innovative Approaches to Teaching and Learning at the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.

Outside of work, Mary Ellen enjoys traveling, reading, and experimenting in the kitchen as a self-proclaimed master chef. She treasures time with her husband Vince, their blended family of seven incredible kiddos, and her beloved Malshi Jasper, her “forever baby.”