MEDCO Board of Directors

The Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) Board of Directors provides governance and oversight for the organization, helping ensure MEDCO remains accountable to its mission and focused on creating long-term value for Maryland’s communities.

Appointed by the Governor of Maryland and confirmed by the Senate, the 12-person Board brings together leaders from public service, local government, real estate, business, finance, development, transportation, and community life. Together, the Board helps MEDCO evaluate opportunities, steward resources responsibly, and advance work that supports business growth, job creation, community investment, and economic competitiveness across the state.

Leadership With Statewide Perspective

Each Board member brings a distinct view of Maryland’s needs and possibilities. Their collective experience helps MEDCO move complex work forward with accountability, insight, and a clear focus on lasting public benefit.

Officers

  • Andy Navarrete

    Andy Navarrete, Chairperson

    Executive Vice President, Head of External Affairs, Capital One Financial Corporation Represents: Montgomery County

  • Eric Costello

    Eric Costello, Vice Chairperson

    Director of Government Relations, Atlas Restaurant Group Represents: Baltimore City

  • Dr. Gina Merritt

    Dr. Gina Merritt, Vice Chairperson

    Principal, Northern Real Estate Urban Ventures, LLC Represents: Baltimore County

  • Tom Sadowski

    Tom Sadowski, Secretary

    Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director, MEDCO

  • The Honorable Jessica Fitzwater

    The Honorable Jessica Fitzwater, Treasurer

    County Executive, Frederick County Government Represents: Frederick County

Members

  • The Honorable Harry Coker Jr.

    The Honorable Harry Coker Jr.

    Secretary, Maryland Department of Commerce

  • Scott Dorsey

    Scott Dorsey, Emeritus

    President, Merritt Properties, LLC Represents: Baltimore County

  • Keasha Haythe, CEcD

    The Honorable Keasha Haythe, CEcD

    Member, Talbot County Council Represents: Talbot County

  • Omar Karim

    Omar Karim

    President, Banneker Ventures Represents: Prince George’s County

  • David Lyles

    David Lyles

    President and CEO, David Lyles Developers Represents: Washington County

  • Jim Soltesz

    Jim Soltesz

    President and CEO, Soltesz Represents: Montgomery County

  • Kathryn Thomson

    The Honorable Kathryn Thomson

    Secretary of Transportation, Maryland Department of Transportation

  • Jessica Underwood

    Jessica Underwood

    Principal, JR Capital Build Represents: Frederick County

Follow the Work of the Board

MEDCO is committed to transparency, accountability, and public engagement. Visit the Board Schedule and Meetings page to view upcoming meetings, agendas, minutes, and recordings.

View Board Schedule and Meetings