Holy Cross College continues its Leading the Holy Cross Way executive series this Friday, October 10, with a session titled “High-Performance Cultures” featuring Donnie Downs, a seasoned entrepreneur and IT executive known for his values-driven approach to leadership.
With more than 30 years of experience, Downs has founded and led multiple successful companies, including Plan B Technologies and Plan B Government Systems, earning recognition for innovation and trusted partnerships with organizations such as the Department of Defense. After the 2020 acquisition of PBT by CDI LLC, he served as Director of Corporate Culture, where he helped integrate nine acquisitions and supported CDI’s growth from $500 million to $1.1 billion in revenue.
Downs holds degrees from Towson University and Central Michigan University, along with an Executive Certificate from MIT Sloan. With his wife, Lynne, he co-founded The Downs Foundation, which empowers women through education, leadership, and entrepreneurship. A three-time CEO of the Year honoree, Downs is known for cultivating workplaces where people and purpose align to drive excellence.
The Leading the Holy Cross Way series, hosted by President Marco J. Clark, Ed.D., invites accomplished professionals to share lessons in leadership rooted in mission, values, and action.
Event Details
- Date: Friday, October 10, 2025
- Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. (Reception to follow)
- Location: Driscoll Auditorium, Holy Cross College
- Admission: Open to the public

