Staff

Lisa Smith joined the Don Wood Foundation as the program officer for postsecondary attainment in October 2023. With a strong background in higher education, she focuses on working closely with potential grantees, particularly in the career and technical education and postsecondary education sectors.

Lisa spent 13 years at Ivy Tech Community College, where she held various roles, including director of community engagement, assistant director of community outreach, corporate trainer, and program consultant. These experiences helped her establish a strong presence as an Ivy Tech representative in northeast Indiana. Her community-oriented mindset and leadership skills provide her with a distinct advantage as she builds relationships in her new role.

In addition to her work at the Don Wood Foundation, Lisa has served as the Board President for the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation and currently serves on the Board of Works for the city of Columbia City. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois, and recently obtained her Certificate in Fundraising Management (CFRM) from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

Lisa has been married to her high school sweetheart for over 35 years; they share three children and two grandchildren.