2025 Woman of Power: Chanda Smith Baker

Chanda Smith Baker is a nationally respected executive whose career has been defined by a singular focus: leading with purpose to drive meaningful, measurable change. With over 25 years of cross-sector experience spanning philanthropy, business, government and community, she has become a trusted voice and strategist at the intersection of racial equity, systems transformation and leadership.

Raised in North Minneapolis, Chanda brings both lived experience and executive insight to every table. Her leadership journey has included guiding legacy institutions through moments of profound change—whether advancing equity-centered strategy as Chief Impact Officer at the Minneapolis Foundation or reimagining community investment during her tenure as President and CEO of Pillsbury United Communities. She has been known for her clarity, conviction and ability to move bold ideas into action in every role.

Today, as Founder and CEO of Smith Baker LLC, she advises executives, boards and organizations navigating complexity, transformation, and opportunity. Her firm aligns values with vision—coaching leaders and institutions toward greater impact, integrity and influence.

Beyond her firm, Chanda continues to shape the field of philanthropy. She is the co-founder of The Black Collective Foundation MN, Minnesota’s first Black community foundation, and co-curator of Portraits of Us, a published collection of essays highlighting the leadership of Black women in philanthropy. She also hosts the award-winning podcast Conversations with Chanda, known for its honest, unfiltered dialogue on race, power and leadership.

Chanda serves on the boards of The Joyce Foundation, Allina Health Foundation (Chair), NACD-MN and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, where she brings her deep expertise in governance, strategy and public accountability. Her leadership is distinguished not only by what she’s built—but by how she leads: with integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to justice.