Denise Smith, director of population health programs and strategies at Northwestern Medical Center, has been appointed executive director of the Vermont Council on Rural Development, effective Sept. 3.
Smith brings to VCRD more than 20 years of leadership, nonprofit management, community development and business experience. Prior to Northwestern Medical, she served as executive director of Friends of Northern Lake Champlain, a nonprofit organization focused on improving the water quality of Lake Champlain.
Smith also serves in several volunteer community roles, including as chair of the Citizens Advisory Committee for Lake Champlain and the St. Albans Planning Commission, and as treasurer of the Vermont Public Health Association.
“VCRD is a well-known organization and plays a vital role in Vermont’s evolution, its public voice and its future,” said VCRD board chair Sarah Waring. “We are thrilled to be welcoming Denise Smith on board, because of her experience and breadth of knowledge as well as her deep commitment to rural communities and civic process. We are confident and excited about her leadership.”
Smith holds a bachelor's degree in international studies and a master’s degree in leadership for sustainability, both from the University of Vermont.