It is with a deep sense of gratitude for her leadership that we announce Jennifer Bires will be leaving us as Executive Director of Smith Center.
Over the past two years, Jennifer led efforts to strengthen Smith Center’s programming for cancer survivors in the DC region and to increase our visibility in the community. Her accomplishments include the creation of new partnerships with the George Washington University Cancer Center, Georgetown University’s esophageal cancer team, and the Washington Hospital Center’s Palliative Care Team.
Jennifer also successfully increased the number of programs offered on-site at our U Street location, increased the number of participants accessing services and worked closely with our retreat team to increase retreat participation and ensure better visibility of this signature program. Additionally, Jennifer deepened the connection between the Joan Hisaoka Healing Arts Gallery and the cancer journey.
She was given the opportunity to lead Life With Cancer at Inova and shape psychosocial programming at their new Inova Schar Cancer Institute. While we are saddened to see her go, we are in full support of her and know she will continue to make deep and significant contributions to people affected by cancer.
Jennifer’s transition creates an important opportunity for Smith Center to continue looking forward, build on the renewed foundation she established, as well as, continue to deepen our on-going collaboration with partners across the DC region.
This transition will be effective October 1, 2019. If you are interested in applying or know anyone who is, you can find the job announcement here. In the meantime, if you have questions or need more information, please contact:
Jackie Ogg, Chair, Smith Center Board of Directors, 301-537-5627 or jackieo@rcn.com.
Julia Rowland, Senior Strategic Advisor, Smith Center, 202-483-8600 or julia@smithcenter.com
Kind regards,
Smith Center Board Chair
