Our Leadership

Abby Smith serves as Manager of Strategic Economic Partnerships at Heartland Forward, supporting pathways into high-demand careers and advancing workforce and economic development strategies.

Abby previously served as a Community Development Officer for The Bank of Fayetteville where she led philanthropy and partnerships supporting local development efforts. Prior to that, Abby served as Director of Operations for SOAR Afterschool, leading programming, fundraising and organizational strategy.

In 2023, Abby was recognized by the University of Arkansas School of Social Work with the Excellence in the Field award. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Yvonne Richardson Community Center and on the Fund Development Committee for the Children’s Safety Center of Washington County.

Abby holds a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from the University of Arkansas. She grew up in the heartland, raised in Prairie Grove, Arkansas.