Baltimore, January 28, 2026
The Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) has appointed five new members to its Board of Directors to enhance leadership and drive economic development in the city. The new members bring diverse expertise in areas such as community engagement, urban planning, and economic equity. BDC President Otis Rolley highlighted their potential to foster transformative growth as Baltimore continues its economic resurgence.
Baltimore, Maryland – January 28, 2026
Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) Appoints Five New Board Members
The Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) has announced the appointment of five new members to its Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2026. The new members are Maria Harris Tildon, Derrick A. Dickens, John Lewis, Calvin Young, and Amber Greene, who joins as an ex officio member. These appointments aim to strengthen the BDC’s leadership and enhance its capacity to drive economic development in Baltimore.
New Board Members and Their Roles
- Maria Harris Tildon: Brings extensive experience in economic development and community engagement.
- Derrick A. Dickens: Known for his work in urban planning and sustainable development.
- John Lewis: A leader in business innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Calvin Young: Focuses on equity and inclusion within economic initiatives.
- Amber Greene: Serves as an ex officio member, contributing her expertise in public policy.
BDC’s Strategic Vision
BDC President and CEO Otis Rolley emphasized the importance of these appointments, stating that the new board members embody the strength of cross-sector partnerships essential for Baltimore’s economic future. Their combined expertise is expected to drive transformative growth and accelerate the city’s economic resurgence.
Background on Otis Rolley
Otis Rolley, a longtime Baltimore resident, was appointed as the President and CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation in June 2025. He is the first African-American man to lead the city’s economic development agency. Prior to this role, Rolley served as the city’s first Deputy Housing Commissioner, Director of Planning, and Chief of Staff to the Mayor. He has also held leadership positions at major foundations and organizations, including the Wells Fargo Foundation and The Rockefeller Foundation. Rolley holds a Master’s in City Planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University. He resides in Baltimore’s Otterbein neighborhood with his partner, Jason Cooper, and their three children.
About the Baltimore Development Corporation
The Baltimore Development Corporation is the economic development agency for the City of Baltimore. Its mission is to grow the city’s economy inclusively by retaining, expanding, and attracting businesses, promoting investment, dynamic neighborhoods, and a high quality of life.
Key Features of the Baltimore Development Corporation’s New Board Appointments
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Board Members | Maria Harris Tildon, Derrick A. Dickens, John Lewis, Calvin Young, and Amber Greene (ex officio) |
| Effective Date | January 1, 2026 |
| BDC’s Mission | Grow Baltimore’s economy inclusively by retaining, expanding, and attracting businesses, promoting investment, dynamic neighborhoods, and a high quality of life. |
| Otis Rolley’s Role | President and CEO of BDC, appointed in June 2025; first African-American man to lead the agency. |
| Otis Rolley’s Residence | Baltimore’s Otterbein neighborhood with partner Jason Cooper and three children. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who are the new members of the Baltimore Development Corporation’s Board of Directors?
The new members are Maria Harris Tildon, Derrick A. Dickens, John Lewis, Calvin Young, and Amber Greene, who joins as an ex officio member.
When did these appointments take effect?
The appointments took effect on January 1, 2026.
What is the role of the Baltimore Development Corporation?
The BDC is the economic development agency for the City of Baltimore, focusing on growing the city’s economy inclusively by retaining, expanding, and attracting businesses, promoting investment, dynamic neighborhoods, and a high quality of life.
Who is Otis Rolley?
Otis Rolley is the President and CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation, appointed in June 2025. He is the first African-American man to lead the city’s economic development agency and has a background in urban planning and economic development.
Where does Otis Rolley reside?
Otis Rolley resides in Baltimore’s Otterbein neighborhood with his partner, Jason Cooper, and their three children.
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