NEW CASTLE, Del.  - Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) Commissioners unanimously approved Resolution 24-28 authorizing the appointment of Ceil Smith of Salem, New Jersey to serve as the next Deputy Executive Director at the DRBA.  Ms. Smith succeeds Stephen D. Williams, who retired on July 1, 2024, and is now serving as the Deputy General Manager at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The board action took place at the bi-state agency’s monthly meeting held last month in James Julian Boardroom at the DRBA Administrative Complex in New Castle, Delaware. 

“Ceil’s credentials and experience are a great match for the Deputy Executive Director position, and we are fortunate to have her as part of the leadership team,” stated Vice Chairman Earl Ransome.  “She’s focused and determined to make a difference here and I look forward to working with her as the organization moves forward.”

The position of Deputy Executive Director focuses on Authority-related economic development initiatives, plans internal and external communication strategies, handles governance matters, fosters on-going working relationships with state and local officials, supervises all DRBA marketing activities, and directs the agency’s federal grant process.  Ms.  Smith, who reports to the Executive Director Thomas J. Cook, began her official duties on Monday, August 5, 2024.

Accepting the position, Mrs. Smith said, “I am honored that the Commission selected me to handle the responsibilities of Deputy Executive Director.  I look forward to working with our leadership team as we balance our two very important missions:  managing our vital transportation links that have aided the growth and prosperity of the region while engaging in economic development initiatives to create and retain jobs for area residents.”

A DRBA Commissioner for more than 18 years, Ceil Smith brings a wealth of experience in community and government relations, economic development, and marketing management Prior to joining the DRBA, Ms. Smith served as the Executive Director of the Salem County College Foundation for nearly ten years. She began her career as an advertising representative at Today’s Sunbeam in 1986.  During her 30-year career in the newspaper business, Ms. Smith served in several managerial positions, each with an increasing level of responsibility, including as the paper’s publisher for the final ten years. 

Active in civic and community activities, Ms. Smith serves as a member of the Salem City Council.  She also served on the Board of Directors of the Memorial Hospital of Salem County, Salem County Chamber of Commerce, SCVTS Educational Foundation Board, Meals on Wheels, Salem Main Street and as a member of both the Salem County Rotary Club and United Way.  Ceil was presented with the Salem County Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award in 2001, the Cavalry Community Development Corporation Service Award in 2005, and the prestigious Crystal Rose Award from the Salem County Chamber of Commerce.

About the Delaware River and Bay Authority 
The DRBA, a bi-state governmental agency created by Compact in 1962, owns and operates the Delaware Memorial Bridge, the Cape May- Lewes Ferry, and the Forts Ferry Crossing.  The DRBA also manages two airports in New Jersey (Millville Executive Airport and Cape May Airport) and three in Delaware (Wilmington Airport, Civil Air Terminal and Delaware Airpark). All DRBA operating revenues are generated through the bridge, ferry and airport facilities.  For more information, visit www.drba.net.