Largo, Fla. – The Pinellas Education Foundation is pleased to announce that it has named Kate Smith as Senior Director of Communications. Smith is a dynamic communications leader and brings over 15 years of diverse experience with a background working for mission-driven organizations. In this role, Smith will provide strategic communications and marketing oversight, branding strategy and lead the communications team in raising awareness about the Foundation’s dedication to accelerating academic achievement for all students.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kate to our team,” said Foundation CEO Stacy Baier, Ph.D. “Thanks to an engaged Board of Directors and a strong partnership with Pinellas County Schools, the Foundation is on a growth trajectory. Kate’s passion for students, combined with her work experience, will help tell our stories of impact in Pinellas County.”
Most recently, Smith was Associate Communications Manager for Raymond James Financial, where she provided strategic direction and message development for their private client group. Prior to joining Raymond James, she worked for Lutheran Services Florida as their Communications Manager and in a dual role with the Department of Children and Families where she focused on bridging the gap between frontline operations and communications.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and Journalism from Southeastern University and is an active member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and serves as the Communications Co-Chair for the PRSA Sunshine District. She is also a graduate of the Florida Sterling Council Emerging Leaders program.
“I am ecstatic to join the Pinellas Education Foundation,” said Smith, who has a heart for public service, “and to have the opportunity to tell the story of all incredible work that is being done to accelerate educational achievement and help every student be prepared for life after high school.”
About the Pinellas Education Foundation:
Established in 1986, the Pinellas Education Foundation is a dynamic, nationally recognized non-profit organization that leads the way in advancing public education and student achievement. The Foundation is committed to equity—a belief that every student deserves a high-quality education. Its mission is to accelerate educational achievement for all students through the effective mobilization of innovation, relationships, and resources, ensuring that every student will be prepared for life after high school. Foundation programs support academic achievement, whether students choose to attend college, enter the workforce, or obtain technical training, with program directors collaborating closely with Pinellas County Schools and a number of community and corporate partners. To learn more about the Pinellas Education Foundation and its partners, please visit pinellaseducation.org.
CONTACT:
Nicole Gonzalez, Assistant Communications Director
[email protected]
(727) 588-4816, ext. 2122
CONTACT:
Kate Smith, Senior Communications Director
[email protected]
(727) 588-4816, ext. 2128
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