HAGERSTOWN – The Washington County Chamber of Commerce has announced that Donald “Don” M. Bowman will receive the 2026 Legacy Award! This award is an honor reserved for individuals whose leadership, work ethic and community service have left a lasting mark on Washington County.
Bowman’s story is an example of homemade success. What began in 1959 with one Mack truck hauling coal has turned into The Bowman Group, LLC, a diverse group of businesses that include trucking, real estate, hospitality and logistics. Under Bowman’s leadership, companies like D.M. Bowman, Inc., Bowman Development Corporation, Bowman Logistics and Bowman Hospitality have provided hundreds of jobs and fueled economic growth in the region.
But beyond the business impact, Bowman is admired for the way he has given back to his community. The Jone L. Bowman Family Foundation, which is named in honor of his late wife, has become a cornerstone of local philanthropy, Chamber officials noted.
Through it, Bowman has supported everything from the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts to Doey’s House, Hospice of Washington County. The foundation’s $6 million donation to the new Meritus School of Osteopathic Medicine is only one example of his continued commitment to improving the local education and healthcare, Chamber officials said.
Even as his companies expanded throughout the East Coast, Bowman kept his heart in Washington County. His properties, hotels and logistics centers have brought new opportunities to the area, while his annual Jone Bowman Memorial Golf Tournament raises funds for cancer research and awareness.
People who know him personally describe Bowman as humble and driven by faith and family, Chamber officials said. Even though he leads one of the area’s largest employers, he has never been one to seek the spotlight. Instead, he lets his actions speak for themselves, whether it’s creating jobs, supporting local nonprofits or simply showing up for his community.
When he’s not working, Bowman enjoys the simple things: tending to his farm, restoring antique cars and trucks, going for walks or spending time with his wife, Mary. Together they’ve built a large, close-knit family of four children, nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, who share in his legacy of hard work and giving back.
The Chamber will honor Bowman at the annual Business Awards event on Feb. 25, 2026, at The Maryland Theatre. The evening will highlight local businesses and leaders who are shaping Washington County’s future.
Tickets and details for the event, along with a full list of award finalists, can be found on the Chamber’s website at hagerstown.org.
