Downtown Bellingham Partnership Announces Organizational Leadership Updates
Two Senior Staffers Promoted to Director Responsibilities and Three New Board Members Join
The Downtown Bellingham Partnership (DBP) is excited to announce significant updates to its leadership team, following the appointment of Lindsey Payne Johnstone as Executive Director earlier this year. Payne Johnstone has now promoted two senior managers to Director titles, effective today, further strengthening the organization's capacity to serve the community.
David Sadowsky has been promoted to Finance and Operations Director. Sadowsky, who moved to Bellingham in 2022, joined the DBP in October 2023 and has since been dedicated to enhancing the organization's impact on the community. With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit administration, Sadowsky brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. His background includes a notable tenure as the Assistant Director of the Dance Education Program at Teachers College, Columbia University, which oversaw an EdD in Dance Education and the Arnhold Institute of Dance Education Research, Leadership & Policy. In his new role, Sadowsky will continue to support staff by managing financial operations and measuring the social and community impact of DBP’s initiatives. Additionally, Sadowsky will oversee organizational policy and human resources responsibilities, ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of the organization.
Jenny Hagemann has been promoted to Development and Communications Director. With over 15 years of experience advocating for small businesses and startups, Hagemann’s journey to the DBP was shaped by her entrepreneurial spirit. As a founding member of Amazon Launchpad, she helped accelerate product sales for over 1,500 startups and small businesses by improving marketing practices and reducing financial barriers. After leaving Amazon, she founded Thousand Acre Cider House in Downtown Bellingham in September 2019. Due to the unparalleled challenges posed to small businesses by the COVID-19 pandemic, she pivoted to focus on community revitalization efforts with DBP in 2021. In her new role, she will oversee fundraising campaigns, lead the Economic Vitality Committee, and manage external communication projects.
In addition to these promotions, the DBP is pleased to welcome three new board members: Aaron Haynes, Dan Murphy, and Logan McQuaig.
Aaron Haynes, a graduate of the University of Oregon Law School, moved to Bellingham in 2021 to join CSD Attorneys at Law. Aaron is deeply integrated into the community, enjoying the vibrant local businesses and contributing his legal expertise to DBP’s mission.
Dan Murphy serves as a Business Experience Officer at WECU, a nonprofit credit union, bringing valuable financial insight and community-oriented experience to the board.
Logan McQuaig is the owner and manager of Redlight Kitchen + Bar, a popular dining spot in Downtown Bellingham. Logan’s experience in the hospitality industry and his commitment to the local community make him a valuable addition to the DBP board.
Executive Director Lindsey Payne Johnstone expressed her excitement about the new appointments: “The promotion of David and Jenny, along with the addition of Aaron, Dan, and Logan to our board, marks a significant step forward for the Downtown Bellingham Partnership. Their diverse backgrounds and dedication to our community will undoubtedly enhance our efforts to make Downtown Bellingham a vibrant, welcoming place for all.”
For more information about the Downtown Bellingham Partnership and its initiatives, please visit www.downtownbellingham.com. A full staff directory of roles and responsibilities are at https://www.downtownbellingham.com/staff and board members and leadership are at https://www.downtownbellingham.com/board.