Julie Smart
Lafayette
Summary
Mission-driven executive leader with over 20 years of experience dedicated to advancing community impact through strategic leadership, operational excellence, and organizational growth. Expertise in scaling programs and leading high-performing teams while aligning mission, vision, and results within complex nonprofit systems. Proficient in building cross-sector partnerships and developing strategic frameworks that deliver measurable outcomes for social good. Recognized for a proactive approach to problem-solving and process optimization, consistently exceeding targets and driving success in dynamic environments.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Chief Operating Officer
FOOD FINDERS FOOD BANK
06.2024 - Current
- Lead strategic and operational functions for a regional hunger-relief network serving 16 counties and 100+ partners. Oversee 34 full-time staff and multimillion-dollar programs, ensuring mission alignment, compliance, and measurable impact. Partner with the CEO and Board to execute strategic plans and operational priorities.
- Architected the organization’s Operational Response Plan, Food Sourcing Plan, and Service Area Assessment.
- Chaired the Board’s Impact Assessment Committee to drive performance transparency.
- Strengthened leadership culture through team development and executive onboarding.
- Implemented KPI-based systems improving food distribution equity and efficiency.
Director, Family & Youth Services
BAUER FAMILY RESOURCES
12.2018 - 08.2019
- Directed trauma-informed programming and leadership development initiatives across the agency. Established the Bauer Training Institute and strengthened partnerships supporting youth and families.
Program Coordinator, School Social Work & McKinney-Vento Education
INDIANA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
10.2014 - 01.2017
- Oversaw statewide programs for vulnerable student populations, managing compliance, professional development, and partnerships with national education and policy organizations.
Education
Master of Science - Educational Administration
Purdue University Calumet
Master of Social Work - Interpersonal Practice
Indiana University
IndianapolisBachelor of Arts - Psychology
Purdue University
West LafayetteSkills
- Strategic Vision & Execution
- Board & Stakeholder Engagement
- P&L Oversight
- Operational Optimization
- Organizational Growth
- Talent & Culture Development
- Fundraising & Partnerships
- Equity & Inclusion
- Community Impact
- Governance & Compliance
- Transformational Leadership
Affiliations
- Governor’s Commission on Improving the Status of Children
- Cross-Systems Youth & Substance Abuse Task Forces
- IDOE All Hazards Response & School Climate Committees
- Chair, Educational Outcomes Subcommittee
- NASW & School Safety Academy Presenter
- Greater Lafayette Executive Coaching Cohort Member
Certification
LSW, LSSW (Indiana)
SELECTED CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
- Led operations impacting 16 counties and 100+ community partners.
- Built trauma-informed initiatives reaching 300+ schools statewide.
- Directed teams of 30+ professionals advancing equity and systems change.
- Chaired and advised multiple state task forces shaping policy for children and families.
Timeline
Chief Operating Officer
FOOD FINDERS FOOD BANK
06.2024 - Current
Director, Family & Youth Services
BAUER FAMILY RESOURCES
12.2018 - 08.2019
Program Coordinator, School Social Work & McKinney-Vento Education
INDIANA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
10.2014 - 01.2017
Master of Social Work - Interpersonal Practice
Indiana University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Purdue University
Master of Science - Educational Administration
Purdue University Calumet