Downtown Partnership Announces New Board Chair and Newest Board Members
The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore is excited to announce its appointment of Carim Khouzami, President and CEO of BGE, to Chair the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and Downtown Management Authority Board of Directors. Furthermore, DPOB is thrilled to introduce its newest Board members — a formidable lineup of leaders representing a diverse array of organizations, with expertise poised to propel the organization to new heights.
Board Chair Transition
The Downtown Partnership and Downtown Management Authority Board members have for decades been laser-focused on adding vibrancy and vitality to the Downtown core. This group, and the dedicated members before them, have been the backbone of Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and its initiatives. DPOB is excited to usher in a new era under the visionary direction of Carim Khouzami, President and CEO of BGE.
“[The Board of Directors] are united around the cause of Baltimore,” stated Khouzami. “What we also need is alignment in our actions. We need to collaborate and work together so that we row in the same direction and are able to have an outsized and positive, lasting impact in Downtown Baltimore.”
At BGE, Carim Khouzami oversees safety, reliability, customer service, financial performance and the company’s commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture. He serves on the boards of several prominent Baltimore-based organizations including the Baltimore Community Foundation, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore Development Corporation, Bridges Baltimore, Baltimore’s Promise, and the Exelon Foundation. Additionally, he has served on the Downtown Partnership Board for a year.
Khouzami replaces Mark Wasserman, who is stepping down after 3 successful years at the helm. Mark has been involved with Downtown Partnership since the beginning, representing the City, State, and Non-profit partners throughout his terms. Mark graciously stepped in as Board Chair when Shelonda Stokes took over as President in early 2020, and has been a tremendous resource during this transformative time.
New Board Members
Amidst this transitional period, the Downtown Partnership eagerly anticipates not only a change in leadership but also the addition of nine new members to the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and Downtown Management Authority Board of Directors.
As Shelonda Stokes, President of Downtown Partnership, emphasizes, “In this critical juncture, it’s imperative that our board mirrors the diverse voices of Downtown.”
Stokes passionately believes that the true strength of Downtown is realized when every voice is not only acknowledged, but actively contributes to shaping its future. With an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and a vision for a vibrant, dynamic Downtown, Stokes expresses her fervor, stating, “I’m enthusiastic about propelling us into a powerful new era with the collaborative force of the DPOB and DMA Boards.” This marks a significant stride towards a future where the collective efforts of our boards create a Downtown that thrives on unity, diversity, and the shared commitment to its continued growth and success.
It is with great excitement that DPOB welcomes the following leaders to join its esteemed boards.
Daniel Eggers (DPOB Board): Executive Vice President and CFO, Constellation
Daniel L. Eggers, the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Constellation, plays a key role in shaping the financial landscape of the nation’s largest clean energy supplier. With over 32,400 megawatts of generating capacity, Constellation under Eggers’ leadership produces about 10% of America’s carbon-free energy, making a significant impact on climate goals. Prior to Constellation, Eggers held senior positions at Exelon Corporation, where he managed corporate finance and investor relations. Notably, he has a distinguished background in investment banking, earning accolades for his analytical prowess and strategic insights. Outside the corporate realm, Eggers contributes to the community as a board member of ROCA Baltimore, addressing urban violence and systemic issues. Eggers, a Texas Christian University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Finance, holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation since 2000.
Morgan C. Gilligan (DPOB Board): Vice President–Manager, Mid-Atlantic Commercial, Stewart Title Guaranty Company
Morgan C. Gilligan, Vice President-Manager of the Mid-Atlantic Commercial division at Stewart Title Guaranty Company, boasts over 25 years of leadership in title insurance and commercial real estate. With a strategic focus, he oversees operations and sales in the Baltimore and D.C. markets, managing a region with a $3.5 billion annual transactional volume. Morgan’s expertise, honed in key roles at Craftsman Developers, LLC, Commercial Settlement Services, LLC, Brinker Capital, and MBNA America, reflects his track record of achieving record-setting sales, market share growth, and retention rates. Beyond his professional achievements, Morgan is a dedicated community leader, serving on the boards of prominent organizations and chairing impactful initiatives. His commitment has earned him accolades, including recognition as an “Influential Marylander” by The Daily Record and honors like “Service Provider of the Year” from The National Association of Industrial Office Properties. As a licensed title insurance professional in Maryland, Delaware, and Washington, D.C., Morgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Mt. St. Mary’s College and resides in Baltimore County with his wife and two children.
Chris Mfume (DPOB Board): Founder and Managing Partner, The Civic Group
Christopher Mfume, the founder and Managing Partner of The Civic Group, is a visionary in real estate investment and development, emphasizing community-informed, sustainably built spaces. With over 900 residential units and 150,000 square feet of community-focused space in the pipeline, Mfume oversees all aspects of development. His prior role at Beatty Development Group involved active participation in over $600 million of real estate investment. Committed to community improvement, Mfume serves on the boards of non-profits such as UMB Cure Scholars and The Baltimore Hotel Corporation. Holding a B.A. from Wake Forest University, he is involved in organizations like HAND, AAREP DC, the Urban Land Institute, and Thread, a mentor program.
Frank Remesch (DPOB Board): General Manager, CFG Bank Arena, Oak View Group
Frank Remesch, a Baltimore native with over 35 years of experience, currently serves as the General Manager of CFG Bank Arena, part of Oak View Group (OVG). Renowned for his pivotal role in the $250M+ renovation of the venue, Remesch oversees a staff of 55 full-time employees and more than 1,200 part-time staff members. Under his leadership, the arena has become an East Coast entertainment destination, hosting over 120 major events annually and earning accolades such as Baltimore Magazine’s Best Venue in 2023. Remesch is not only a successful industry professional but also an active supporter of non-profit organizations in Baltimore.
Chris Simon (DPOB Board): Founder & CEO, BTST Services
Chris Simon, a resilient entrepreneur and dedicated philanthropist, embodies ambition and commitment to community impact. From his roots in Baltimore’s public school system to becoming a CEO with a thriving portfolio of businesses, Chris’s journey showcases his unwavering dedication to education and personal development. As the CEO of Simon Enterprises, he oversees diverse companies, including Simon Development and Outkrowd Restaurant Group — an impressive portfolio of dining establishments including the innovative BLK Swan. Beyond entrepreneurship, Chris is a passionate advocate for mental health, evident in his leadership at BTST Services, a CARF-accredited mental health organization. His commitment extends to community wellness through BTST Cares Inc., a non-profit providing essential resources and programs. Chris’s exceptional achievements, including the acquisition of BTST Services by Webster Equity Partners, and his role as a dedicated husband and father of three, underscore his multifaceted success and impact.
Delegate Stephanie M. Smith (DPOB Board): City of Baltimore
Stephanie M. Smith, re-elected to the Maryland House of Delegates, represents Baltimore City’s 45th State Legislative District and chairs the Baltimore City House Delegation. As a Member of the House Appropriations Committee, she leads the Education and Economic Development Subcommittee. Stephanie, also the Parliamentarian for the Maryland House of Delegates, has passed over two dozen laws addressing public safety, economic justice, and education, including the CROWN Act against hairstyle discrimination. Professionally, she serves as the Assistant Director for Equity, Engagement, and Communications in the City of Baltimore’s Department of Planning. With a background in federal policy advocacy, Stephanie actively contributes to Baltimore’s community and serves on the board for the Maryland School for the Blind. A proud graduate of Hampton University, the University of Delaware, and Howard University School of Law, Stephanie, a Member of the Maryland bar, resides in East Baltimore with her family.
Kerry Watson (DPOB Board): Executive Vice President, Public Affairs, Orioles
Kerry R. Watson, Jr. is the Executive Vice President, Public Affairs for The Baltimore Orioles since September 2023. With a background in government affairs, he previously served as Regional Vice President at MGM Resorts International, played a key role in Maryland legislative matters, and dedicated 20 years to the Prince George’s County Police Department. Committed to community service, Watson is actively involved in various boards and holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Maryland.
Bill Wiedel (DPOB Board): President and CEO, CFG Bank
Bill Wiedel, who joined CFG Bank in 2012 as CFO and assumed the role of President and CEO in 2018, has over 41 years of banking and finance experience. With a track record of year-over-year profitability increases, he has fostered a positive corporate culture, leading CFG Bank to be recognized as the Best Place to Work in Baltimore (large company category). Wiedel, a Loyola College graduate, is dedicated to both developing the best bank in Baltimore and contributing to the community’s growth. Beyond his professional achievements, he has served on the Board of Directors for Athletes Serving Athletes and as the former Chairman of the Finance Committee for Our Lady of Grace School.
Ann Winder (DMA Board): Owner, The Place Lounge
Ann Winder, a lifelong resident of Baltimore City and small business owner, has been the proud proprietor of The Place Lounge for over 30 years. Deeply ingrained in the community, Ann is an active advocate for its wellness and prosperity. Serving on the Boards of the Market Center Merchants Association and the Market Center Community Development Corporation, she collaborates with fellow business owners and community leaders to foster growth and enhance the overall quality of life. Beyond her professional commitments, Ann finds joy in sports, particularly racquetball, a sport that fuels her passion for physical fitness and friendly competition. With an entrepreneurial spirit, community engagement, and love for sports, Ann aims to make a positive impact and contribute to a thriving and united Baltimore City.
