
Nativity Preparatory Academy, a local tuition-free privately-operated urban middle school for students in Grades 5-8, has appointed James Smith as its new president. Smith will be responsible for school operations, advancement and fundraising, marketing and communications, and its graduate support program.
Smith joins Nativity following 19 years with the YMCA of Greater Rochester, most recently as director of development and community engagement. Previously, he served as district executive director of the Carlson, Lewis Street, and Maplewood YMCA branches. Smith has served on the Nativity Board of Trustees for the past three years, and has been actively involved in supporting its mission to provide a premier education for urban youth.
“James’ infectious enthusiasm will serve our mission well as we work to build community relationships and spread the word on the success of Nativity and our students,” said William Carpenter, chair …