As the RDA’s Senior Director of Development, Ms Smith holds the mandate to proactively pursue financial investments for RDA-implemented projects and philanthropy-related initiatives to support the Virgin Islands recovery and development efforts.

The RDA in a press release on January 31, 2023, said, in welcoming the new SDD to the team, Chief Executive Officer at the RDA Mr Anthony S. McMaster said, “We are proud to have Ms Smith on board and look forward to her expertise and impact in executing the essential portfolio of fundraising as the agency rises to the next level.”

CEO McMaster added he is confident Ms Smith will bring positive change.

Role of SDD

According to the RDA, Ms Smith will work in conjunction with the CEO and the agency’s Development Sub-Committee to implement a comprehensive successful capital campaign in the areas of Education, Climate Resilience and Mitigation, Green Initiatives, and the Virgin Islands National Heritage Park Project with emphasis on annual, major and legacy support.

The Senior Director of Development is responsible for the organisation of and strategically aligning both fundraising and friendraising events to be held across the Territory, and in-kind donations. She is also tasked with increasing awareness of the agency’s work, goals and financial needs, in collaboration with current and prospective donors, staff, volunteers and the Virgin Islands community through public and private sector partnerships.

During her tenure, MsSmith will develop a three-year philanthropy strategic plan, execute domestic crowdfunding campaigns and create a Contractor Corporate Social Responsibility Plan.

Qualification & Experience

The RDA said, with a solid background and expertise, Ms Smith is a skilled facilitator and negotiator who analytically, strategically, and logistically evaluates situations, ensuring low cost, while producing quality and comprehensive end-results.

Ms Smith holds a master’s degree in Public Administration and dual bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and Business Management from the University of the Virgin Islands. She has completed the Quality Improvement Processes Certification Programme, a curriculum which evaluates organizational efficiency levels hosted by Harvard University, and a certificate in Cyber Security Management from the Texas A&M University.

Ms Smith also has certificates in Fund Raising Management, Capital Campaigns and Principles, and Techniques of Fundraising Management among other qualifications from the Indiana University.

The RDA said the appointment of the Senior Director of Development is in line with the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency’s overarching goal, to deliver on its mandate to execute recovery projects, build capacity and philanthropy.