November 10, 2026

Valdosta, GA: The One Valdosta-Lowndes (OVL) Board of Directors announced today that Mary Beth Brownlee will step down as director effective November 16, 2026, to become Deputy Chief Officer of Advancement with the Valdosta State University Foundation. Brownlee has led OVL since its 2023 launch, helping establish the organization and advance its mission to strengthen the Valdosta-Lowndes Community.

During her tenure, Brownlee provided visionary leadership, strengthened community partnerships, and championed initiatives that bring people together to build a more connected Lowndes County.

“Mary Beth has been instrumental in establishing One Valdosta-Lowndes and building the partnerships that have positioned the organization for long-term success,” said OVL Chair Clinton Beeland. “We are grateful for her leadership, dedication, and passion for making our community a better place to live and work. While we will certainly miss her day-to-day leadership, we support this next chapter in her career. We know Mary Beth will remain a strong advocate and valued partner for OVL and its mission.”

In just three years, OVL has become an established public-private nonprofit, raising more than $2 million from founding partners and the Synergy 2030 capital campaign. Key accomplishments include partnering with Georgia Tech on a comprehensive housing affordability study, coordinating the launch of the WIN Regional College & Career Academy, and facilitating leadership and workforce development initiatives.

OVL has also encouraged civic engagement with its first Bridging Faith & Community Breakfast and the Valdosta Young Professionals’ Re: Envision event. The next milestone event, the Lowndes Longest Table on Sunday, November 15, will bring together over 150 volunteers and 500 Lowndes County residents for food, fellowship, and meaningful conversation.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve Lowndes County, its cities, businesses, and education partners, and most importantly, its people over the last three and a half years,” Brownlee said. “It’s been exciting to see the growth that has happened during this time, despite all the community has gone through. Lowndes County is smart, resilient, and growing, and OVL represents the community’s willingness to partner together and innovate to support continued opportunity. I believe this next phase will position OVL for even greater impact in the years ahead.”

The OVL Board expects to hire a new director in early 2027 and will guide the organization’s work during the transition.

The One Valdosta-Lowndes Foundation, Inc., is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit founded to enhance and support economic development in Lowndes County. Through its Synergy 2030 plan, OVL invests in three key priority areas: 1) Civic Engagement & Leadership, 2) Pathway to Prosperity, and 3) Vibrant & Safe Community.