The office of Grandmont Rosedale Community Development’s (GRDC) executive director has a new occupant.

But, while Sherita Smith’s face might be new at the office of one of the west side’s most active neighborhood economic proponents, she’s no stranger to Detroit revitalization leaders. Smith replaces long-time executive director and Grandmont Rosedale resident Tom Goddeeris, who moves into the director of community and economic development role at Detroit Future City.

A Detroit native, Smith has more than 18 years experience in community development in Detroit with expertise in leadership, program development, strategic planning, fundraising and communications.  She has a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s in political science.  Smith served as community engagement director for Eastside Community Network, executive director of First Independence CDC, and most recently as fund development director for Detroit Hispanic Development Corp.

Smith, who was a unanimous choice by GRDC’s board of directors, says she’s familiar with Grandmont Rosedale’s successes and challenges, and believes that GRDC has an integral role to play in the community and Detroit as a whole.

“This city is all of ours,” she says. “There is value to everybody in the city. We just have to recognize that value.”

Smith says Grandmont Rosedale’s resident community engagement level is one of its greatest assets.

GRDC invites neighbors to visit the GRDC office and say hello to the new executive director or attend the Community Connections Breakfast in the fall. Smith can be contacted at ssmith@grandmontrosedale.com or 313.387.4732 x111. 

  Grandmont Rosedale Community Development, Sharita Smith