Jeff Smith - Vice President of Philanthropy & Advocacy

Growing up in a small town, Jeff learned the value of community. He tells stories of compassionate care and joy in all the communities that Vista Prairie serves. In the process he builds relationships with people and organizations who support our mission, through generous donations, grants or government relations. Jeff also is an active member of LeadingAge MN, currently serving as chair of the organization's Recognition Committee.

He’s a veteran healthcare executive, most recently at Volunteers of America – Minnesota and Wisconsin. Previously he led communications and business development functions for UnitedHealthcare Community & State, managing Medicaid and other public sector health benefits programs. He has additional corporate communications experience at Carlson Companies and Northwest Airlines.

With an undergraduate degree from Indiana University, Jeff completed post graduate studies at the Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota, and in nonprofit executive programs at the Mendoza School of Business at Notre Dame.