Meet Kelli Smith, CFRE!

Kelli Smith is the President and CEO of UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation. Kelli sat down with CGP to share insight into her career and leadership philosophy, which have led to her impactful career in gift planning and philanthropy. 

With a background in health services administration, Kelli's path into philanthropy was ignited while working as an operating room secretary. Inspired to make a difference, she began her role at the Health Department, designing and teaching community programs. From there, she moved to the American Heart Association to address heart disease and stroke prevention among women of color in disparate communities. Through her work, she saw the possibility of transforming not only the organizations but also people's personal circumstances. 

Kelli later transitioned into annual giving at an independent day school. As her career progressed, Kelli was inspired by the positive impact that compounding interest and endowments can have on organizations' longevity and sustainability.

Currently, Kelli is the CEO and President of UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on the support and care of older adults. Having been primarily raised by her grandparents and caring for them in their later years, she brings a personal connection to her work. 

"I love our mission and helping people to age vibrantly and to age well. In doing that, we also ensure that people have the ability and dignity to do so," Kelli says.

She describes her position as "a complete exercise of what leadership really is: empowering the people on your team to do extraordinary work." While focused on high-level strategy, Kelli emphasizes creating a level of collegiality and accountability for her team.  

From managing macro meetings to training and orientation, Kelli strategically approaches the team's needs to ensure they're partnering in a way that really matters. She prioritizes conveying key insights to her team, empowering them to succeed and effectively communicate with the community.

Kelli's leadership philosophy is driven by her commitment to advocating for aging adults. “The communities and people we serve, both at home and in our residential communities, depend on us to do our very best every day.” Whether advocating for aging adults in a healthcare setting or valuing the wisdom they have to offer, Kelli sees her work as a way to foster a sense of mutual responsibility in society. 

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Thank you to Kelli for sitting down with CGP. If you haven't had the pleasure of meeting Kelli, introduce yourself at CGP Conference 2024 in Orlando, Florida, or say hello on the CGP Link or LinkedIn.

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