O’Donnell Takes the Reins at PSPA

O’Donnell Takes the Reins at PSPA

With the start of our new fiscal year on July 1, we also welcome our new President, Rich O’Donnell.  Rich brings a wealth of experience to his new post and a deep appreciation for the Society and the broad, agricultural interests of our members.  Next year’s list of programs and field trips (soon to be published) will reflect the breadth of agriculture in our region and Rich’s support of the educational and scientific mission of the Society.  Now, here’s some more about Rich and his interests. Rich O’Donnell recently retired as an Executive with Univest Bank & Trust Company. During his 40 years in the financial services industry he held leadership roles at Continental Bank (now PNC Bank) in Norristown, Pa., Commerce Bank (now TD Bank) and First National Bank of Chester County (now Susquehanna Bank). Mr. O’Donnell earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Pierce Junior College and a BA in Finance from the University of Delaware. He furthered his education with a Graduate Degree in banking through the American Bankers Association, Stonier Graduate School of Banking. In addition, he holds the Business Management & Strategy Certificate from Villanova University. O’Donnell has a passion for helping others. He shares his financial expertise and enthusiasm by giving back to the community through various efforts. He recently was elected President of the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, Inc., and Foundation. He serves as Treasurer of the Kimberton Hunt Club; Treasurer and Honorary Director of the Carriage Association of America; and Trustee of the Hoopes-Addis Educational Trust. He is also a member of the re-organized Philadelphia Four In Hand Club. In his spare time, Rich enjoys gardening, riding and training his horses, fox hunting and competing with his antique, horse drawn carriages. Rich, and his wife, have been seen many times in the Devon Horse Show ring with their horses and was awarded Champion in 2013 and Reserve Champion in 2014 & 2015. Mr. O’Donnell recently authored a book titled “The Coach Horn”.  This horn is a musical instrument played by an individual called the Guard onboard a Road Coach, pulled by four horses. Rich was the Guard onboard the coach owned by John M. Seabrook for 27 years. The Guard is also known as the “Tootler” because the guard would entertain the passengers while on board to and from the hotels and inns. Rich and his wife, Enid, live in Chester County, Pennsylvania on their farm named “Tootlers Echo Farm”.