About

A visionary leader with a passion for community engagement, education, and the nonprofit sector, Richard A. Smith has dedicated his career to advancing institutions that create lasting impact. A graduate of Northern Arizona University, he earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership, shaping a lifelong commitment to fostering growth and excellence.

Throughout his distinguished career, Richard has held executive roles across higher education, healthcare, and youth development, serving as Vice President at both Wichita State University and Boise State University. His leadership extended nationally as Executive Director of the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), where he championed youth empowerment through sport.

At Northern Arizona University, he played a pioneering role as the founding director of an Olympic-sanctioned high-altitude sports training complex. Later, he transitioned to healthcare philanthropy, serving as Vice President for Advancement at Northern Arizona Healthcare before becoming the founding president of the NAH Foundation. His work culminated in leading the Health First Foundation as its founding President and CEO, where he worked to strengthen healthcare initiatives through strategic philanthropy.



Now retired, Rick continues to engage with the nonprofit sector, fostering community initiatives and education programs that drive meaningful change.