Kate Smith

Kate Smith is a transformative leader in healthcare, philanthropy, and community impact. She has served two terms on the board of the St. Francis Foundation before being asked to serve as its President. She was also the inaugural President of the SFF Associates, an organization designed to engage the next generation of Bay Area leaders in philanthropy. For over 20 years, Kate has worked with Raphael House, San Francisco’s oldest family homeless shelter, serving as a board member, six-year board chair, and now board member emerita. As a strategic consultant, she advises non-profits on leadership, governance, cultural development, and fundraising, helping them expand their impact and sustainability.

A highly experienced healthcare professional, Kate is a registered nurse with more than three decades of expertise, particularly in caring for seriously ill children and the homeless population. She has volunteered in San Francisco for over 20 years, focusing on community health and welfare initiatives, including family homelessness, child development, economic empowerment, and public-private partnerships for social impact.

Kate was also selected as one of just 60 members of the third class of the Presidential Leadership Scholars program, founded by Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton. Through this elite program, she collaborated with global leaders, gaining the skills to drive systemic change across professional, political, and economic boundaries.

Her influence extends beyond leadership and philanthropy—Kate’s athletic career as a champion swimmer took her to two U.S. Olympic trials, and she remains passionate about using athletics to unlock the potential of young people.

When she’s not leading organizations or engaging in community work, Kate enjoys making wine and honey and spending time with her husband and two sons.