Who We Are
Preston Schell
Co-Founder / President
Preston Schell co-founded Ocean Atlantic Associates with Gene Lankford for the purpose of pursuing responsible real estate development in the coastal Delaware resort area. His background includes graduating magna cum laude from Amherst College and earning a MBA from the Harvard Business School. His career in investment banking for Merrill Lynch gave him the extensive experience in the investment and finances of large corporations. He applies this knowledge and talent to both his business and volunteer interests.
Preston is committed to responsible land use and historical preservation. As a descendent from one of the founding families of Sussex County who were granted tracts of land by William Penn in the early 1700's, Preston's heritage guided him to form the Sussex County Land Trust. This organization's mission is to preserve open space for future generations. Preston’s vision and the efforts of the Sussex County Land Trust were rewarded when local, state, and federal government matched private funding. He actively serves as a board member of the Greater Lewes Foundation, a community service organization that sponsors educational seminars on responsible land use and historical preservation.
Preston is also a managing member of The Veritas Group, a real estate investment and development company. This business focuses on acquiring, developing and managing real estate cash flow assets with low breakeven occupancies and relatively simple management structures.
As president of Ocean Atlantic Associates, Preston has propelled OAA into developing quality housing projects such as Creekwood, Captiva Sands, and Paynter's Mill. One of his chief responsibilities is supervising the versatile and talented staff of OAA. He actively works with real estate agents, construction managers, project developers, rental agents, construction companies, marketing directors, accountants and the many contractors who contribute to OAA's success profile.
