ANN ARBOR, MICH. – The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) has announced that Linda Smith-Wheelock, who previously served as NKFM’s chief operating officer and executive vice president, is now the foundation’s fifth President and Chief Executive Officer. Smith-Wheelock stepped into this role after Dan Carney became President and CEO Emeritus in July 2017.
Smith-Wheelock has been with the NKFM for a total of 24 years, seven years as Program Director and 17 years as COO/VP. She has Master’s degrees in both Social Work and Business Administration, as well as 20 years of experience in developing and implementing health programs. Smith-Wheelock has presented statewide and nationally on the NKFM’s notable evidence-based programs and their outcomes. She led efforts, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, to produce a statewide strategic plan on chronic kidney disease prevention.
The cornerstone of the NKFM prevention programs is the Diabetes Prevention Program, a yearlong evidence-based, life-changing program that helps people with prediabetes reduce their chances of developing diabetes. Linda has been at the forefront of expanding this program across the state of Michigan.
The foundation decided over 15 years ago to change how it approached chronic kidney disease. They shifted the focus from providing services to those already in kidney failure, to preventing it with a variety of programs that reach preschool children through senior citizens.
“My passion focuses on working with our amazing NKFM staff and volunteers to enhance the reach of our evidence-based and life-changing programs for all ages,” states Smith-Wheelock. “This is an exciting time to be leading NKFM. As one of America’s top nonprofit organizations, we continue to receive grants and funding from a variety of sources and expect to grow our public image as a trusted, credible expert on preventing kidney disease and improving the quality of life for those living with it.”
President and CEO Emeritus Dan Carney speaks highly of her and her ability to lead the organization. “I support Linda Smith-Wheelock as she channels her tremendous talent, energy and dedication toward making the NKFM even more effective and successful,” said Carney.
