BSM Welcomes Ben Smith as Chief Advancement Officer

Benilde-St. Margaret’s is pleased to welcome Ben Smith as the school’s chief advancement officer, effective Tuesday, January 21, 2025.

Smith comes to BSM from the Yaya Foundation where he served as executive director. He previously served as the associate vice president for development at Scholarship America, the director of major gifts at Gustavus Adolphus College, and the associate director of development at Groves Academy.

“We are very excited to have Ben join the BSM community and lead our Advancement team,” said Danielle Hermanny ’03, BSM president, noting, “His commitment to building authentic relationships and growing community connections will have a significant impact on the strategic growth and success of our fundraising initiatives as we look towards the very bright future for BSM.”

At Scholarship America, Smith oversaw its corporate giving programs, expanded their major gift capacity and established philanthropic pathways to support students experiencing hardship and barriers, on their pathway to completion.

While at Groves he worked to elevate the alumni program, developing a major gifts program which built upon their successful annual gala. At Gustavus Adolphus, Smith led the annual giving program, the Gustavus Fund, working to increase alumni giving and participation, helping close the largest capital campaign in the school’s history.

“I have dedicated nearly 15 years to education fundraising and student support programs,” Smith said, “I look forward to building upon the rich tradition of philanthropy and engagement at Benilde-St. Margaret’s.”

Smith feels there is both a great need, and a great opportunity for members of the BSM community to find meaningful ways to contribute financially to the school’s continued growth. “BSM is known for its transformative student-centric approach, and I look forward to connecting and being a partner with our alums, parents, and community members ensuring our programs are effective for each student on their academic journey.”

Smith succeeds Richard Olson, who has transitioned into a short-term major gifts role for BSM. During his time as chief advancement officer at BSM, Olson exceeded the school’s fundraising goals for the annual gala and the Day of Giving campaign, resulting in increased tuition assistance awards, continued funding for the school’s 70+ athletics and activity programs, and innovative classroom experiences.

Smith will oversee BSM’s four-member advancement team which manages alumni relations, community events, planned giving, charitable gifts, and two annual fundraising campaigns.