Mr. Desmond is an associate director at CIDRAP and is responsible for the planning and oversight related to external communications and fundraising for the center.
Previously, Mr. Desmond served in various roles within CIDRAP, most recently as the director of business preparedness, where he worked to engage and lead the business community in preparedness for infectious disease threats. Since launching business preparedness outreach efforts, CIDRAP has developed a broad constituency of more than 7,000 professionals across 80 countries. During this time, Mr. Desmond oversaw the launch and development of the CIDRAP Business Source subscription service and managed three national summits. Mr. Desmond also founded CIDRAP's Web-based seminar series for businesses, a service that has drawn more than 4,000 participants. Throughout his tenure at CIDRAP, he has led and participated in successful efforts to secure grants and contracts from corporations, federal agencies, associations, and not-for-profit foundations.
Mr. Desmond previously served on the board of directors for two nonprofit organizations focused on educating and inspiring youth and entrepreneurs through peer-based programs. He graduated cum laude from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, where he earned a BA in business administration. He earned his MBA at the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management.
