This leadership transition comes as GBUL has officially been restored to full compliance and good standing with the National Urban League (NUL), closing a challenging chapter and signaling a confident path forward.
Seawright, a respected executive with more than two decades of experience in affordable housing, urban economic development, public finance, and community-centered leadership, steps into the role with a clear vision for strengthening GBUL’s impact. His deep financial expertise and nonprofit leadership uniquely position him to guide GBUL through this pivotal moment, bringing the stability, strategy, and credibility needed to
support the organization’s continued growth and mission.
“It is a profound honor to serve as Board Chair at such a pivotal moment for the Greater Baltimore Urban League,” said Seawright. “GBUL has an important legacy—and an even more urgent responsibility—to advance equity, opportunity, and justice across our communities. I’m committed to ensuring our work remains strategic, transparent, and rooted in impact. Together, we will build a stronger, more equitable Baltimore.”
Seawright’s appointment has been welcomed across the organization.
“The Greater Baltimore Urban League is entering a renewed chapter of service. With dedicated board leadership in place, we are ready to build on our momentum and continue advancing economic mobility for the communities we serve. We appreciate the National Urban League’s partnership and look forward to continuing our mission in this next phase,” said Interim CEO Tershea Rice.
The National Urban League offered strong support for Seawright’s leadership. “The National Urban League is proud to welcome Kevin Seawright as the new Board Chair of the Greater Baltimore Urban League. With more than two decades of experience in affordable housing, urban economic development, and community-centered financial leadership, Kevin brings the strategic insight and steadfast commitment needed to guide the GBUL into its next chapter. His work strengthening neighborhoods, expanding homeownership pathways, and advancing economic stability reflects the core values of
the Urban League movement.
As the GBUL moves forward under this renewed leadership, we are confident that the organization will continue to expand its impact and deepen its service to the Baltimore community. We look forward to working closely with Chair Seawright, the Board, and the entire GBUL team as they advance our shared mission of economic empowerment, educational opportunity, and civil rights for all,” said Marc H. Morial, President & CEO of Tthe National Urban League.
GBUL extends its deepest appreciation to outgoing Board Chair Ricky Smith. Smith’s steady leadership, partnership, and commitment to community uplift have been integral to the organization’s progress and resilience over the past several years.
“Serving as Chair of the Greater Baltimore Urban League Board was one of the hallmarks of my public service career. The Board and the office team worked through many challenges to provide exemplary service to the Baltimore community. I’m extremely confident in and excited for the future of GBUL, and I applaud the Board’s selection of an outstanding new Board Chair,” said Smith.
Under strengthened board governance and renewed organizational focus, GBUL is poised to expand its reach and deepen its service across Greater Baltimore. Core priorities for the coming year include:
• Expanding economic mobility and workforce programs
• Strengthening partnerships with local government, corporate partners, and
philanthropic institutions
• Deepening advocacy for civil rights, youth opportunity, and community
advancement
• Supporting small-business growth and entrepreneurship
• Advancing long-term organizational sustainability and community impact
“This moment reflects the culmination of months of hard, necessary work to realign GBUL with the highest standards of the Urban League movement,” said Seawright. “We are moving forward with clarity, unity, and purpose.”
The Greater Baltimore Urban League works to empower historically under-resourced communities to achieve economic self-reliance, parity, power, and civil rights. Through programs in entrepreneurship, education, workforce development, youth leadership, and advocacy, GBUL advances equity and expands opportunity across Greater Baltimore and the State of Maryland.
Jennifer Wicks
Chief Development Officer
jwicks@gbul.org
410-699-2937
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