The Education Foundation of Collier County – Champions For Learning is pleased to announce that Ronna Smith has joined the Champions For Learning staff as the organization’s Chief Program Officer (CPO).
As Champions For Learning’s new CPO, Smith leads the planning and implementation of the organization’s student programs, educator programs, and community engagement initiatives. As a member of the senior leadership team, she works closely with the President and CEO to advance the organization’s strategic priorities while ensuring high-quality, impactful programming that supports Collier County’s students and educators.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Ronna to Champions For Learning,” said Dr. Eric Williams, President and CEO of Champions For Learning. “Across our community, too many students face barriers to reaching their full potential, while educators continue to navigate increasing demands with limited resources. Meeting these challenges requires experienced, visionary leaders who understand both the realities of our schools and the opportunities that exist when a community invests in education. Ronna brings decades of educational leadership, a deep commitment to student success, and firsthand experience supporting educators. Her expertise will strengthen our programs and help us expand our impact for the students, teachers, and schools we serve.”
Smith brings more than 30 years of experience in public education, serving in a variety of leadership roles, including elementary and middle school principal. Most recently, she served as Principal of Oak Ridge Middle School in Collier County. Throughout her career, Smith has been recognized for fostering strong school cultures, improving student outcomes, and developing effective educational leaders. Her collaborative leadership style and extensive experience working alongside educators, families, and community partners position her to lead and expand Champions For Learning’s student programs, educator programs, and volunteer and community engagement efforts. Smith is also a former Golden Apple Teacher of Distinction, reflecting her longstanding commitment to educational excellence.
Champions For Learning’s student programs provide mentoring, college and career readiness, and scholarship opportunities that empower students to achieve postsecondary success. The organization’s educator programs invest in teachers through recognition, classroom grants, and professional support, while community engagement initiatives connect volunteers and donors with opportunities to make a lasting impact on education in Collier County.