Meet the Founder Mark Sauer

M​​​ark Sauer (1946–2025) lived a life defined by leadership, service, and compassion. Best known for his distinguished career in professional sports, he served as Deputy COO of the St. Louis Cardinals, President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Pirates, and later CEO of the St. Louis Blues. Yet for all his professional accomplishments, Mark often said his most meaningful work came after retirement, when he turned his focus to students in South Florida. Moving to Delray Beach in 2006, he became Athletic Director at Village Academy, a Title I school, where he saw firsthand the barriers many young people faced. It was there that the idea for Bound for College was born, built on his belief that education could unlock opportunities and break cycles of disadvantage. ​​​

To the community, he was “Coach Mark”, a mentor with high expectations, a generous spirit, and a gift for encouragement. He poured his energy into tutoring sessions, college tours, and quiet conversations that reassured students they were capable of more than they imagined. Many, like NFL wide receiver Tre’Quan Smith, credit him as the most important influence in their lives. Beyond the program, Mark was known for his warmth and zest for life: paddling on calm mornings, biking through town, chatting with neighbors over iced tea, or grilling chicken to share with friends and strangers alike.

Mark’s life was also grounded in deep family connections. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Donna, a proud father to his sons Peter and Alex, and a joyful grandfather. His kindness, wisdom, and steady presence touched not only his family but also the countless students and colleagues who were shaped by his example. Hundreds of young people have gone on to college and successful careers because Mark believed in them when few others did. Mark Sauer believed his life’s purpose was to help motivated students overcome systemic barriers and build fulfilling futures. His passion continues to shine through every life he helped change.

Bound for College was born from the belief that every student, no matter their background, deserves a fair chance to pursue higher education and a brighter future. What began in 2012 as Delray Students First, under the leadership of our founder, Mark Sauer, was never simply about tutoring or test prep—it was about instilling hope, raising expectations, and opening doors that had long seemed closed.

Mark understood that opportunity, mentorship, and encouragement could change the trajectory of a young person’s life, and he built Bound for College on that conviction. Over time, his vision grew from a small initiative at one local school to a movement that touches the lives of hundreds of students across Palm Beach County. Today, Bound for College continues to honor his mission by creating pathways to education and empowerment for the next generation of leaders.

📖 You can read the full obituary and learn more about Mark’s life and legacy HERE

🎓 Mark’s memory lives on. Click HERE to donate to the Mark Sauer Scholarship Fund and Bound For College.