David S. O’Donnell is the Executive Director of Historic St. Mary’s City. A mission-driven nonprofit leader with more than 20 years of experience, he brings a strong record of guiding public-facing institutions through growth, transition, and renewal.

Over the course of his career, O’Donnell has secured more than $100 million in philanthropic, corporate, and government support while strengthening board partnerships, advancing capital projects, and aligning organizational strategy with public trust and impact. His leadership has spanned cultural, educational, and policy organizations, including senior roles with the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry, Baltimore Public Markets Corporation, and Lexington Market.

As Executive Director, O’Donnell oversees Historic St. Mary’s City’s archaeological research, education and interpretation programs, fundraising, marketing, and partnerships with the State of Maryland and St. Mary’s College of Maryland. He is honored to steward one of Maryland’s most significant historic landscapes as the organization looks toward the future and prepares for Maryland’s 400th anniversary.