BPM Appoints David Belew as Director of Development

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, September 3, 2025 | 10:07am CT

David Belew

Baltimore Public Media (BPM) appoints David Belew as its new Director of Development, overseeing the organization's philanthropic strategy across membership, grants, major giving, events, and community engagement, effective September 22. Belew brings over a decade of leadership experience in fundraising and communications within Baltimore's cultural sector.

He previously held key roles at the National Aquarium and the Maryland Center for History and Culture (MCHC), where he helped lead a $23 million capital campaign and a strategic rebrand from its previous identity as the Maryland Historical Society. Belew also worked closely with state legislators and administrations under Governors Hogan and Moore to expand funding programs for museums statewide.

"We are thrilled to welcome David to Baltimore Public Media," said BPM President and General Manager Craig N. Swagler. "His passion for connecting people to ideas, culture, and community - combined with his proven success in advancing major institutions - will help us grow stronger and more resilient as we enter this pivotal moment."

A longtime Baltimore City resident, Belew lives in Remington with his wife, Courtney, and their two daughters. He is an active community member, serving on the boards of the Friends of Stony Run and the Maryland Museum Association. His personal interests include cycling, running, birdwatching, and supporting the local arts scene.

"Platforms for lifelong learning, dialogue, and our local artists are vital to the quality of life of the region," said Belew. "Baltimore Public Media provides listeners with these opportunities at scale as an essential part of our cultural infrastructure. As a lifelong patron of public media, I am excited to help expand the organization's base of support in a time when our community is more attuned than ever to its funding and impact."

Swagler added, "Belew's leadership will be instrumental in expanding the reach of our journalism, music, and cultural programming, and in ensuring that BPM continues to serve as a vital resource for the communities of Baltimore and across Maryland."

Baltimore Public Media operates WYPR 88.1 FM, WTMD 89.7 FM, and Your Public Studios.