Marc Brajkovich – A Journey of Leadership, Service, and Dedication
Marc Brajkovich’s journey from the U.S. Marine Corps to a successful career in supply chain management and his ongoing dedication to Governors State University (GovState) highlights the power of resilience, hard work, and community. Growing up on the Southeast side of Chicago, Marc’s mother worked tirelessly, holding three jobs to send him to Mount Carmel High School. The sacrifice she made instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and determination. “You came to Mount Carmel as a boy. If you care to struggle and work at it, you will leave as a man,” Marc recalls of the school motto, which deeply influenced his personal and academic growth.
Marc’s experience at GovState was transformative, as the university became a place where he found support and encouragement. “GovState’s culture is extremely supportive, and the positive energy is invigoratingly contagious,” Marc says. He credits professors like Dr. Tricia Kerns for her mentorship, and Will Davis, who encouraged him to remain engaged with the university and eventually led him to his current role in Alumni Relations. “Will Davis changed my direction with Governors State forever,” Marc says, highlighting how his connection to the university has remained a cornerstone of his career and personal growth.
With 28 years of experience, including a distinguished career in the Marine Corps, Marc’s leadership style is shaped by discipline, accountability, and adaptability. “You can only effectively lead after you’ve mastered the art of being a great follower and teammate,” he explains. His career in supply chain management, beginning with Roadway Express, has evolved in parallel with the industry’s rapid changes, driven by the demand for speed, accuracy, and flexibility. “The supply chain industry is driven by speed, accurate data, problem-solving, and flexibility,” he says, emphasizing the critical importance of these factors in today’s global economy.
Marc has also dedicated himself to supporting GovState’s student-athletes and alumni community. As an Alumni Relations Athletic Associate, he’s passionate about creating positive environments for student-athletes, recognizing the valuable life lessons sports provide. “Some of life’s greatest lessons are learned through sports,” he notes, underscoring how athletics helped shape his own character. He is committed to ensuring current student-athletes at GovState receive the support they need to succeed both on and off the field.
Looking ahead, Marc’s goals include further personal growth, embracing new challenges at both Estes Express Lines and GovState, and supporting his family. He is particularly focused on mentoring others, teaching, and continuing to give back to the community that has helped shape his journey. “I enjoy mentoring, learning, and teaching/coaching, so hopefully new opportunities present themselves in the future,” he says.
Marc’s advice for those starting their leadership journey is simple but powerful: “Adversity will come, but when it does, lean into it and grow from the pain.” His career and life experiences have taught him that challenges are opportunities for growth, and his leadership reflects that mindset.
GovState is proud of Marc Brajkovich and all he has accomplished. His story is one of resilience, leadership, and service—values that embody the spirit of the university. Marc’s ongoing dedication to supporting others, both in his professional career and through his work with GovState, continues to inspire those around him. We look forward to his continued success and the impact he will make in the years to come.
Author: Jocelyn Bell, Alumni Relations Communication Coordinator