Attorney Vanessa Smith Appointed to HCC Board of Trustees

HOLYOKE — Vanessa Smith, senior vice president and chief legal officer for Baystate Health, has been appointed to the Holyoke Community College (HCC) board of trustees by Gov. Charlie Baker. The term will run until March 1, 2025.

“I am passionate about education and its ability to empower, inspire, break down barriers, and create pathways to opportunity,” Smith said. “I am honored to begin my service as trustee during Holyoke Community College’s celebration of its 75th anniversary, and I look forward to helping shape its bright future.”

Smith has worked for Baystate Health since 2016 as associate general counsel, vice president, chief general counsel, and now senior vice president and chief legal officer. Prior to that, she was a partner in the law firm Bulkley, Richardson and Gelinas, LLP in Springfield. She has also worked as an assistant attorney general in the New York Attorney General’s Office in Syracuse and as a court attorney for the New York State Court of Appeals. She holds a law degree from Syracuse University College of Law and a bachelor’s degree in French from Wells College.

“We are excited to welcome Vanessa Smith to the HCC board of trustees,” HCC President Christina Royal said. “Her background and experience at one of the region’s largest employers will benefit HCC as we continue to adapt to serve the needs of our students and community in the years to come.”

Smith attended her first HCC board meeting on Aug. 24 over Zoom, where she was introduced by board chair Robert Gilbert.

“The HCC board of trustees is very pleased to welcome Attorney Smith to the college as its newest trustee,” Gilbert said. “Trustee Smith, a Holyoke resident, compliments the already diverse skill sets of our board. We look forward to her participation as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the college.”