D.C. Policy Center Announces New Board Chairman and Chairman Emeritus Designation 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington, D.C. — February 18, 2025 — The D.C. Policy Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew Klein as Chairman of its Board of Directors. Mr. Klein succeeds Charles “Sandy” Wilkes, the founding Chairman of the organization, who will now serve as Chairman Emeritus in recognition of his leadership and lasting contributions. 

Mr. Klein is the Chairman of Akridge, a leading real estate development and investment firm based in Washington, D.C. After serving for more than two decades as President and CEO, Mr. Klein is stepping down from that role this month and moving into the position of Chairman. With over 30 years of hands-on experience in the real estate sector, Mr. Klein has led Akridge since 2001, overseeing the strategic direction, acquisitions, development, and operations of the company. Under his leadership, Akridge has acquired, developed or entitled more than 20 million square feet of property in the Washington metropolitan area and currently manages over $4 billion in assets. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Klein is deeply engaged in the D.C. community. He has served as Chairman of the ULI Washington District Council, Chairman of the DC Chamber of Commerce, and Chair of the Downtown Business Improvement District, earning recognition for his leadership and commitment to urban development. His vision is closely aligned with the D.C. Policy Center mission of fostering economic growth and equity across the city.  

“I am honored to assume the role of Chairman of the D.C. Policy Center,” said Mr. Klein. “I look forward to working alongside the team, our partners, and our Board to continue advancing policies for a vibrant, competitive, and compelling District of Columbia.” 

Charles “Sandy” Wilkes, the founding Chairman of the D.C. Policy Center, has played an essential role in the organization’s success since its founding. Since 2016, his visionary leadership and deep commitment to the city have shaped the organization into the influential and respected policy think tank it is today. In his new role as Chairman Emeritus, Mr. Wilkes will continue to provide valuable guidance and support to the organization. 

“It has been an incredible honor to help build and lead the D.C. Policy Center from its inception.” said Mr. Wilkes. “I am incredibly proud of the work we have done to advance thoughtful, data-driven policy solutions that support the District’s growth and prosperity. As I step into the role of Chairman Emeritus, I look forward to seeing the organization continue to thrive and prosper under Matt Klein’s leadership.” 

“Sandy’s leadership has been indispensable in guiding the D.C. Policy Center to where it is today,” said Mr. Klein. “We are grateful for his contributions and are fortunate to have him remain involved as Chairman Emeritus to provide ongoing wisdom and support.” 

“The D.C. Policy Center remains even more committed to arming decision makers with fact-based, unbiased, and reliable research and analyses to help create a vibrant local economy that can maximize opportunities for residents, workers, and businesses in the District of Columbia.” said Yesim Sayin, the founding Executive Director of the D.C. Policy Center.  “As the city continues to work through economic headwinds and uncertainty, this work is needed more than ever. We are tremendously fortunate to have Matt step into the Chairman position. And I am personally grateful for Sandy’s leadership, guidance, support and mentorship over the last eight years.” 

About the D.C. Policy Center 
Established in 2016, the D.C. Policy Center is a non-partisan, independent think tank focused on advancing policies for a vibrant, competitive, and growing economy in the District of Columbia. The D.C. Policy Center provides objective, targeted, and the highest quality data analyses to support a productive policy debate in the District of Columbia.  

For more information about the D.C. Policy Center, its Board of Directors, and its ongoing work, please visit www.dcpolicycenter.org. 

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