Staff Spotlight: Kimberly Smith

Staff Spotlight: Kimberly Smith

May 9, 2024

By External Affairs Intern, Kaitlyn Kornegay

Briefly describe your role at Golden LEAF.
As a Program Officer my job is to evaluate and conduct due diligence on applications. Once applications are awarded, I provide oversight and monitor projects throughout the life of the project.

Describe yourself in three words.
Dependable. Inquisitive. Witty.

What’s your favorite part of your job and why?
My favorite part of the job is learning about all the different projects that are submitted. Since joining Golden LEAF, my understanding of infrastructure, workforce preparedness, and agriculture projects have increased significantly.

What is your favorite pastime outside of work?
Now that it has warmed up, I look forward to biking and taking long walks in the park. I also like trying new restaurants.

What is your biggest work-related accomplishment within the last year?
My biggest work-related accomplishment within the last year was learning how to navigate through a new grants management system. This was a major accomplishment for the entire staff. We are all proud of the work that was put in as a team to help streamline reporting processes.

What motivates you to support long-term economic development in rural, tobacco-dependent, and economically distressed communities?
I am a product of rural eastern North Carolina and knowing that I play a small part in helping to increase economic opportunity across the state motivates me to show up with a smile. I look forward to continuing to help advance and support communities through my role at Golden LEAF.

Learn more about Kimberly here.

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