John J. O’Malley

Dr. John J. O’Malley, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at the University of Scranton, brings decades of academic, athletic, and community leadership to his role at Fellowship House. With advanced training in philosophy and experimental psychology, Dr. O’Malley has dedicated his life to the development of young people—on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.

Over the course of his 25+ year academic career, Dr. O’Malley taught exercise and sport psychology, coaching principles, and character development, helping shape the next generation of educators and coaches. His passion for ethical sportsmanship extended beyond the university, where he became a cornerstone of Northeast Pennsylvania’s most respected coaching initiative, the Bochicchio Sport Character Initiative.

• Frank O’Hara Award – The highest alumni recognition from the University of Scranton
• Lifetime Achievement Award – Pennsylvania State Athletic Directors Association
• Sports Ethics Fellow – Institute for International Sport
• Positive Coaching Alliance Champion – For promoting ethical coaching nationwide
• Inductee, Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame (Northeast Chapter)

A national advocate for positive coaching and fair play, Dr. O’Malley is driven by the belief that coaches are among the most influential mentors in a young person’s life. He attributes his own lifelong dedication to service to the inspiration he received from his junior high basketball coach in North Scranton—a moment that sparked his enduring commitment to youth development and community engagement.

At Fellowship House, Dr. O’Malley provides invaluable insight into character education, moral leadership, and the importance of healthy role models. His voice reinforces the importance of structured mentorship in recovery, and the irreplaceable value of purpose-driven service.