Vera Smith-Winfree

About Vera Smith-Winfree

I’m a community-centered executive with 20+ years of experience in higher education, nonprofit leadership, and civic engagement. My work focuses on connecting people, strengthening organizations, and creating opportunities that help businesses and students thrive.As Chief Executive and Administrative Officer of the Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce, and Administrator of our Scholarship Foundation, I lead initiatives that support Bloomfield’s full business community, expand educational access, and build partnerships that move the Town forward. I also founded the Bloomfield Food Truck Festival, now a signature event that showcases local talent and provides meaningful support for small businesses.My leadership is grounded in serving the entire community with purpose, clarity, and collaboration. I focus on increasing visibility, improving access to resources, and designing programs that strengthen the local economy and create opportunities that last.

Experience

1. Executive Director

   Bloomfield Ct Chamber Of Commerce

   Dec 2019 — Present · Bloomfield, CT, US

   Lead strategy, partnerships, and daily operations for a 100-member Chamber supporting Bloomfield’s full business community. Develop programs, resources, and educational workshops that strengthen local businesses and expand community engagement.Founder of the annual Bloomfield Food Truck Festival and producer of signature events, including holiday pop-ups, seasonal markets, and the Economic Development & Legislative Breakfast, that attract thousands and increase visibility for local entrepreneurs.Build collaborations with Town leadership, regional business agencies, and community partners to provide tools, grants, and opportunities that help businesses grow and connect.

Education

• The University of Georgia

  Master, Higher Education/Higher Education Administration

• Rutgers University

  Bachelor of Arts, Journalism & Mass Media

• Ford Foundation – Regional Sustainable Development Fellowship

  Fellow, Regional Sustainable Development

Skills

• Program Management
• Leadership Development
• Team Leadership
• Social Networking
• Community Organizing
• Program Development
• Fitness
• Higher Education Administration
• Staff Development
• Marketing
• Student Affairs
• Non-Profits
• Leadership
• Community Relations
• Editing
• Community Outreach
• Exercises
• Program Evaluation
• Social Media
• Volunteer Management
• Board Development
• Workshop Facilitation
• Philanthropy
• Networking
• Youth Empowerment
• Event Management
• Non-Profit Administration