The Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, an interdisciplinary research center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, has announced that Derrick L. Smith is their new director of development.

Wisconsin Institute for Discovery (WID) fosters unlikely collaborations, catalyzes new ways of thinking and generates unexpected scientific discoveries by bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and a broad range of disciplines. Smith, who also currently serves as the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Urban League of Greater Madison and as a member of the Agrace Hospice Foundation Board, will be responsible for all aspects of the institute’s development efforts including strategic planning, donor relations and stewardship of major gifts.

Smith previously served as Director of Strategic Planning and Special Projects at the Catholic Charities of Madison and as Startup and Business Development Director at One City Early Learning Centers. He is a charter member of the 100 Black Men of Madison, INc. and has deep connections in the Madison community.