Meet Miss Maryland Volunteer 2027
BRIDGET O’BRIEN
Boomerang!
Turning Setbacks into Success — Rebranding How Society Views Failure
Bridget created “Boomerang!” to challenge the stigma surrounding failure and encourage individuals of all ages to view setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to give up. Inspired by her own journey of resilience after being told her dream of studying musical theatre would not become a reality, Bridget transformed her personal experiences into a statewide movement that empowers others to embrace perseverance, redefine success, and confidently pursue their goals.
Over the past six years, Bridget has traveled more than 30,000 miles, reached over 4,000 students across all 24 Maryland counties, and built partnerships with schools, guidance counselors, health educators, National Panhellenic chapters, and the Distinguished Young Women program to deliver interactive workshops focused on resilience and personal growth. Through companion worksheets, engaging discussions, and real-life storytelling, her Boomerang curriculum equips participants with practical tools to navigate challenges and see failure as a stepping stone toward future success.
Looking ahead, Bridget plans to expand her initiative through partnerships with TEDx, the Maryland Department of Education, and the Girl Scouts of the USA, establishing a S.E.R.V.E. badge that will inspire young women to serve their communities while creating lasting opportunities for growth within the Miss Volunteer America Organization.
More about Bridget:
Bridget O'Brien is a two-time graduate of the University of Alabama, earning her Bachelor of Arts in News Media with a concentration in Sports and a minor in Theatre and Dance Performance in 2024 before completing her Master of Science in Sports and Hospitality Management in 2026. She currently works in public affairs and social media management, with the long-term goal of leading philanthropic and community relations efforts for a professional sports organization.
A passionate performer and leader, Bridget is a two-time World Tap Champion with the USA Tap Team, has performed the National Anthem at more than 20 events, appeared on national television during the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, and starred as a principal performer in Morgan State University's production of Aida. Her leadership experience includes serving on the University of Alabama Homecoming Executive Board, Director of Philanthropy, Vice President of Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society, and Clerk of the UA Student Judiciary.
Bridget previously represented Maryland as Miss Maryland Sweetheart 2025, where she was named Second Runner-Up at the National Sweetheart Pageant and earned the Overall Interview, Overall Evening Gown, Hospitality, and Director's Awards. A passionate advocate for resilience through her S.E.R.V.E. Initiative, Boomerang: Rebranding How Society Views Failure, Bridget has traveled across Maryland encouraging students to view setbacks as opportunities for growth while continuing to expand the reach and impact of the Miss Maryland Volunteer Organization through service, leadership, and community engagement.