Trailblazer Poised To Lead The Center Into Its Next Chapter
Dr. Carla Smith has been named the new chief executive officer of The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center (The Center) in New York City. She will be the first person of color to head The Center when she takes over the role in February 2024.
The announcement comes after current Executive Director Glennda Testone announced she would be stepping down at the end of 2023 after serving 14 extraordinary years.
“I am honored to step into this role and build upon the foundation that Glennda, the staff, and the board have worked to establish,” Smith said.
Accomplished Leader Bringing Over 25 Years Of Experience
Smith brings over 25 years of experience in social services and a commitment to centering historically neglected populations. She currently serves as the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Urban Resource Institute (URI), the largest provider of domestic violence shelter services in the United States.
At URI, Smith has been responsible for leading day-to-day operations, overseeing staff, and implementing strategic plans. Under her leadership, URI has expanded its Economic Empowerment Program to increase resources for domestic violence survivors.
“Carla is an exceptional trailblazer, a skilled advisor, a valued mentor, and a much-loved leader,” said URI CEO Nathaniel M. Fields.
Early Ties To The Center
Although she grew up in Western Massachusetts, Smith has a history with The Center. When she first moved to New York City from Boston in the 1990s, she utilized The Center’s services to build community.
“It felt like I [was] coming home,” Smith told Gay City News about her appointment. “I want people to feel welcomed [and] this space at The Center is such an affirming space.”
Throughout her career, Smith has prioritized inclusive spaces and services for LGBTQ people. She intends to carry that commitment to her new role.
Plans To Listen And Develop Strategic Plan
Smith said her first priority as CEO will be to listen and understand perspectives from staff, the board, and the LGBTQ community on The Center’s future direction. From there, she plans to develop a strategic action plan focused on community needs.
Some key goals Smith has are increasing accessibility to vital systems and spaces and improving safety considering the violence and discrimination LGBTQ people face.
“I’m bringing that sort of understanding and commitment,” Smith said about her career-long priorities. “I am committed to creating what I’ve called transformational spaces and experiences.”
The Center provides a wide range of services from HIV/AIDS support to mental health counseling to career assistance. Smith is excited to build on that work as she leads the organization forward.
