March 28, 2024

Heely New Chairman of HSMC Commission

Heely

Retired US Navy RADM Timothy L. Heely is the new chairman of the Historic St. Mary’s City Commission. His four-year term began July 1.

Mr. Heely has more than 40 years of professional experience with government and industry during his careers as a naval aviator and in business.

A pilot in the Navy, he flew from aircraft carriers in the Pacific and Indian oceans and commanded an F/A-18 squadron during the first Gulf War. Later positions in the service included lead engineer for Navy and Marine Corps aircraft and program executive officer for Navy and Marine Corps drones and weapons.

He has served in numerous high-level positions in several US and British defense manufacturers.

He received a Bachelor of Science Degree from the US Naval Academy in American political affairs and a Master of Science Degree from the US Naval Postgraduate School in aeronautical engineering (avionics).

A past board member of St. Mary’s College of Maryland and president of Historic St. Mary’s City Foundation, he currently serves on boards for SkyX, Donate Life Maryland, Velos, St. Mary’s County Historical Society, and others.

He and his wife of 45 years, Cherie, live in Southern Maryland and have visited Historic Saint Mary’s City with their children and grandchildren since 1988.

Mr. Heely’s appointment will be confirmed by the Maryland State Senate during its next legislative session.

“We believe he will lead us to a bright museum future,” said Regina Faden, executive director of Historic St. Mary’s City.

He succeeds Father William L. George, S.J., who served as chair for eight years. During his time, Father George was instrumental in shaping the forward direction of HSMC.

This summer promises to be an exciting one for the museum, as it will see the arrival of the newly built Maryland Dove on August 27. Construction on the new vessel has taken place at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in full view of the public over the past few years.

Also scheduled to take place during the chairman’s term, the museum will begin construction on a new visitor center, tentatively named the Maryland Heritage Interpretive Center. Designed by the Washington, DC-based, nationally known firm Howard and Revis Designs, the new indoor museum will feature interactive exhibits that will help further tell the complex story of the area.

About the appointment, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan wrote, “I know we will succeed in our goal to make a positive difference for all Marylanders.”

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