Ceil Smith was selected as only the fourth Deputy Executive Director in the history of the Delaware River Bay Authority.  In this capacity, she focuses on Authority-related economic development initiatives; plans internal and external communication strategies; handles governance matters; serves as the Board Secretary and fosters on-going working relationships with state and local officials.  Ms. Smith began her official duties in August 2024. 

A DRBA Commissioner representing Salem County for more than 18 years, Ms. 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.  

Recognizing her achievements, Ms. Smith earned a number of accolades from civic, business and community organizations – including the Salem County Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award in 2001, the Cavalry Community Development Corporation Service Award in 2005, the prestigious Crystal Rose Award from the Salem County Chamber of Commerce and the SCVTS Leadership Award in 2019 just to name a few.

Ms. Smith resides in Salem, New Jersey.