Contact: Nicholle Granger
ngranger@voaches.org
October 09, 2025
Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas (VOACC) proudly announces the appointment of Marie Rodgers O’Bannon to its Board of Directors. A visionary marketing executive and dedicated community servant, Marie Rodgers brings more than two decades of global leadership experience across corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors. Her appointment reflects VOACC’s continued commitment to advancing strategic growth, innovation, and compassionate service in the communities it serves.
Throughout her career, Marie has built a reputation for transforming organizations through her data-driven, people-first approach. With a background spanning marketing strategy, business development, digital engagement, and operations, she has led large-scale initiatives that not only elevate brand presence but also strengthen community impact.
Marie holds a dual BBA in Marketing & Finance from American Intercontinental University and an MBA in Marketing and Project Management from the New York Institute of Technology. She also earned a Master Certificate in Multimedia & Digital Design from Johns Hopkins University and holds executive credentials in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion from the University of South Florida and Women in Leadership & Entrepreneurship from Cornell University. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine.
Beyond her professional achievements, Marie is deeply committed to service and mentorship. For more than 20 years, she has volunteered her time to counsel individuals and small businesses, helping them develop actionable strategies to reach both immediate and long-term goals. Her ability to simplify complex ideas into practical, empowering guidance has made her a trusted mentor and advisor to many.
Marie’s dedication to service extends to her active involvement in numerous civic and social organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the NAACP, the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), the National Women of Achievement (NWOA), and the Top Ladies of Distinction (TLOD), where her leadership and volunteerism have earned her multiple recognitions.
When asked what inspired her to join VOACC’s Board, Marie shared,
“ I was inspired to join VOACC’s Board because its mission directly aligns with both my professional expertise and my personal values. With more than 20 years of experience leading marketing strategy and business development, I’ve seen how thoughtful leadership and innovation can transform organizations. Equally, I have devoted much of my life to service, supporting women and children, youth, small businesses, and mentoring entrepreneurs. VOACC provides an opportunity to unite these strengths, helping expand its impact and continue enriching lives across our communities.”
– Marie Rodgers O’Bannon , VOACC Board of Directors
In her new role, Marie looks forward to helping shape VOACC’s outreach and growth efforts:
“ With my experience in marketing, business development, and community engagement, I am excited to help expand VOACC’s reach, strengthen its impact, and ensure its message resonates with the communities it serves. Beyond strategy, I look forward to building relationships with fellow Board members and working collaboratively to create sustainable solutions that improve lives.”
– Marie Rodgers O’Bannon , VOACC Board of Directors
Outside of her professional and community commitments, Marie is a proud grandmother of four, a member of New Macedonia Church in Washington, DC, and enjoys crafting and traveling in her spare time.
Please join us in welcoming Marie Rodgers O’Bannon to the Board of Directors of Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas!
About Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas
Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas (“VOACC”) is a faith-based, nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire self-reliance, dignity, and hope through housing, health and human services.
At VOACC, we have been helping to create Healthy Communities for All for over 129 years by aligning housing, health and human services. We actively pursue health equity by filling the gap in housing and care for underserved populations, including those who are experiencing homelessness, low-income, underinsured or uninsured, justice-involved and veterans. By offering integrated housing and care, we address the social determinants that impact the long-term stability for those in need.
Through a dedicated team of management, staff and volunteers who are guided by our Core Values – Visionary, One Body, Integrity, Compassion, Excellence, and Faith – we are the safety net for thousands of men, women and children each year across Maryland, the District of Columbia, Virginia and the Carolinas. We operate over 49 programs focused on 8 areas of service: homeless services, affordable housing, mental health, substance use recovery, intellectual/developmental disabilities services, community re-entry, veteran services and workforce development.
VOACC has over 800 staff members and more than 2,000 volunteers. The organization helps over 9,675 individuals and families every year from Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia and the Carolinas. For more information on VOACC, please visit www.voachesapeake.org.