Diane Smith
Wheat Ridge,CO
Summary
Business-driven individual with more than 17 years of experienceworking as a Director/Executive Director for non-profit organizations. Determined and experienced in client rapport, budget control and employee mentoring and coaching. Exceptional leader talented at keeping calm under pressure, communication and organization. Technically-savvy with outstanding relationship building, training and presentation skills.
Results-oriented achiever with proven ability to exceed targets and drive success in fast-paced environments. Combines strategic thinking with hands-on experience to deliver impactful solutions and enhance organizational performance.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Health & Wellness
YMCA of Northern Colorado
Boulder, CO
01.2023 - Current
- Oversaw budget planning and resource allocation for health and wellness facilities, maintaining operational efficiency while enhancing program offerings.
- Authored successful grant proposals securing funding to expand wellness initiatives and community outreach programs.
- Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations and maintained proper certification standards across all wellness programs and staff.
- Spearheaded initiatives addressing mental health and stress management, integrating holistic wellness approaches into YMCA services.
- Managed and supervised a diverse team of 52 fitness instructors, trainers, and wellness coaches, providing ongoing training and professional development to ensure high-quality service delivery.
- Established partnerships with local organizations to expand service offerings and outreach efforts.
- Oversaw quality assurance measures to ensure adherence to health regulations and standards.
- Reviewed work procedures and operational problems to determine ways to improve service, performance and safety.
- Led the development and implementation of comprehensive health and wellness programs, increasing membership engagement by 25% within the first year.
- Recruited, hired and trained all staff, providing direct supervision, ongoing staff development and continuing education to employees.
- Increased membership retention to 98% from 67%.
- Conducted regular assessments of member wellness needs through surveys and focus groups to tailor programs that boost satisfaction and outcomes.
Executive Director
Seniors In Service
Reno, NV
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Collaborated closely with organizational leadership and the board of directors to develop and guide effective operational strategies aligned with the company’s mission and vision.
- Cultivated and maintained strong relationships with donors, government officials, community partners, and other key stakeholders to secure funding, resources, and ongoing support for organizational initiatives.
- Established clear organizational goals and objectives to focus efforts, drive performance, and ensure successful mission fulfillment.
- Implemented cost control measures and financial oversight to adhere to budgetary constraints while maximizing operational efficiency and profitability.
- Promoted a culture of accountability and continuous improvement through regular performance evaluations and team development initiatives.
- Monitored program outcomes and financial performance, preparing detailed reports for the board to inform decision-making and demonstrate impact.
- Directed and managed the Foster Grandparent Program, successfully matching volunteers aged 55+ with at-risk youth in local schools.
- Led the Senior Companion Program, pairing volunteers aged 55+ with older adults (60+) living alone or in need of respite.
- Administered the Respite Voucher Program, distributing $1,000 grants to live-in caregivers of individuals over 60, providing essential relief for everyday caregivers.
- Developed and maintained strong partnerships with local schools, senior centers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to promote program outreach and participation.
- Maintained detailed program records, tracked outcomes, and prepared reports demonstrating positive impacts to stakeholders and funding agencies.
- Secured and managed funding and grants to sustain and expand program offerings, ensuring continued support for vulnerable populations.
- Advocated for the needs of seniors, caregivers, and at-risk youth within the community, enhancing program visibility and resource allocation.
Owner/Instructor
High Sierra Martial Arts
Reno, NV
08.2016 - 01.2022
- Instructed a variety of group exercise classes, including kickboxing, Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, weapons training, and strength conditioning.
- Designed engaging and innovative customized training programs tailored to individual fitness goals.
- Collaborated directly with the Reno/Sparks Indian Tribal Health Clinic to promote healthy lifestyles, including dietary meal planning.
- Partnered with non-profit organizations to provide fitness programs at Senior Housing Centers, Homeless Shelters, and At-Risk Youth Centers.
- Led ongoing recruitment efforts to grow program participation and expand the community reach.
- Successfully grew the school from 7 students to over 90 enrolled.
- Supervised a team of 10 instructors and team leaders, fostering a supportive and professional training environment.
Director of Operations
Volunteers of America
Reno, NV
01.2015 - 07.2018
- Oversaw operations of seven homeless shelters simultaneously, maintaining continuous capacity serving 700-900 individuals nightly.
- Managed a $1.2 million budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources across all shelters.
- Cultivated relationships with county and state businesses to secure financial donations, work projects, and enhance community relations.
- Supervised a team of 72 support staff employees and 5 managers, promoting a collaborative and effective workforce.
- Provided daily guidance and structure to clients, supporting their personal development and goal achievement.
- Assisted clients in developing long-term goals and implementing actionable plans to reach the next level of success.
- Collaborated directly with the VA to help veterans secure medical care, benefits, and stable housing.
- Coordinated with senior care facilities to arrange long-term housing solutions for elderly clients.
- Oversaw quarterly and annual financial and production audits for the City of Reno and Washoe County to ensure compliance and transparency.
- Authored successful grant proposals to secure yearly contracts and funding from private and government sources.
- Designed and launched multiple programs, obtaining subsidies and funding to support shelter operations and outreach.
- Coordinated volunteer scheduling and interviews for Senior Housing Center, Winter Shelter, and Medical Outreach Program.
- Represented the organization in weekly news and social media interviews to promote awareness and advocacy.
- Directed the Reno-Works program, facilitating employment and securing long-term housing for program participants.
- Created and implemented procedural and safety manuals to enhance operational consistency and safety standards.
- Developed and managed operating budgets for each shelter, ensuring financial sustainability.
- Secured necessary documents, clearances, certificates, and approvals from local, state, and federal agencies.
- Created multimedia presentations for boardrooms and courtrooms, synchronizing video and text depositions for better understanding.
- Partnered with City of Reno and Washoe County to improve infrastructure and resources for shelter residents.
- Supported the Chief Operating Officer with daily operational functions, ensuring smooth management of programs.
- Managed a maintenance team of seven personnel responsible for internal systems and building grounds upkeep.
- Controlled inventory based on operational needs and budget constraints.
- Established effective maintenance schedules to ensure equipment and systems operated efficiently.
- Implemented innovative programs to boost employee loyalty and reduce turnover rates.
- Generated annual budget forecasts for executive and corporate reporting to support future grant applications.
- Strategically scheduled staff to maintain optimal coverage and operational efficiency.
Program Director
Volunteers of America
Sacramento, CA
06.2010 - 01.2015
- Prepared and maintained production, facility reports, and personnel records with accuracy and confidentiality.
- Managed teams of 30-40 employees, fostering a productive and collaborative work environment.
- Developed programs to secure long-term housing and employment for clients in need.
- Met with clients daily to assess needs, address staff grievances, and provide structure and guidance for personal development.
- Collaborated closely with HUD to prioritize seniors for housing and medical treatment on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Worked with all levels of the Social Security Administration (QDD) to expedite SSI payments for individuals with severe mental health challenges, seniors, and those with disabilities.
- Designed tools and benchmarks to enhance team performance and maintain focus on goals.
- Developed and managed project budgets ensuring efficient use of resources.
- Maintained confidential personnel files and ensured compliance with licensing and CPR certification requirements.
- Investigated and reported special incidents, events, and complaints to the Quality Department, supporting continuous improvement.
- Administered medication logs and assisted with diagnostic testing for HIV-positive patients, ensuring proper care.
- Initiated a comprehensive homeless shelter study to identify and implement process improvements.
- Provided clinical oversight for five shelters simultaneously, maintaining high standards of care.
- Ensured strict compliance with HIPAA regulations to protect client privacy.
- Oversaw financial operations including invoicing, payment processing, and deposit preparation.
- Collaborated routinely with department managers to resolve issues and enhance service delivery.
- Strengthened staff morale and retention through effective communication, timely problem resolution, and proactive supervision.
- Performed account reconciliations and resolved financial variances to maintain accurate records.
- Monitored unit budgets to ensure alignment with financial objectives.
- Processed monthly departmental performance reports to track progress and outcomes.
- Developed and implemented new policies to improve operations and client experience.
- Ensured every client had a positive, memorable, and consistent experience.
- Estimated costs and set quality standards to maintain efficient operations.
- Assessed maintenance needs and assigned repairs to qualified personnel to ensure facility upkeep.
Registered Nurse
UCLA Medical Plaza
Los Angeles, CA
06.2000 - 01.2009
- Communicated effectively with doctors and nursing staff regarding critical patients, ensuring efficient triage and organization.
- Delivered fast-paced, dynamic care to patients of all ages, addressing conditions ranging from minor injuries to critical emergencies.
- Delegated staff nurse duties to optimize team workflow and patient care.
- Coordinated nursing department activities to guarantee adequate clinical and support staff availability for resident care.
- Performed lab tests and accurately communicated results to relevant medical personnel.
- Trained new staff on quality control procedures, promoting adherence to best practices.
- Analyzed patient and family feedback to recognize staff achievements and identify areas for improvement.
- Led the review, revision, and development of Operational Policies within the Emergency Department to enhance efficiency and compliance.
Education
BSN - Psychology
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO01-2024
Associate of Arts - undefined
General Lewis and Clark
Lewiston, IDBachelor of Science - Psychology
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO01-2024
Skills
- Effective verbal communication
- Fundraising strategy development
- Team leadership implementation
- Conflict resolution expertise
- Program development
- Grant proposal development
- Budget management and evaluation
- Highly organized team liaison
- Data-driven insights
- Community engagement
- Effective public speaking
Timeline
Director of Health & Wellness
YMCA of Northern Colorado
01.2023 - Current
Executive Director
Seniors In Service
01.2021 - 01.2023
Owner/Instructor
High Sierra Martial Arts
08.2016 - 01.2022
Director of Operations
Volunteers of America
01.2015 - 07.2018
Program Director
Volunteers of America
06.2010 - 01.2015
Registered Nurse
UCLA Medical Plaza
06.2000 - 01.2009
Associate of Arts - undefined
General Lewis and Clark
BSN - Psychology
Colorado State University
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Colorado State University