Smith to retire from The Bridge; Sampson named executive director

After 27 years of leadership, Suzanne Smith steps down as executive director of The Bridge From Violence

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Bridge From Violence has announced the retirement of Executive Director Suzanne Smith, effective March 20, 2026. After more than 27 years of dedicated leadership at The Bridge, Smith concludes a distinguished 37-year career in the anti-violence movement. The Bridge Board of Directors has appointed Cathi Sampson as the organization's next executive director.

Why it matters

Smith's tenure as The Bridge's Executive Director reflects remarkable progress in the organization's mission to prevent and eliminate domestic violence and sexual assault. Under her leadership, The Bridge experienced significant growth in both reach and impact, providing advocacy support services to an increasing number of survivors each year. Sampson's appointment as the new executive director ensures continuity in leadership and a commitment to building on the strong foundation established by Smith.

The details

During Smith's 27-year tenure, The Bridge's advocacy support services grew from approximately 200 survivors per year to 592 survivors and 619 children in 2025, along with more than 2,600 calls received by The Bridge's 24-Hour Crisis Line. This growth reflects not only a rising need for survivor support but also greater community awareness, trust, and access to The Bridge's services. Sampson, who has maintained a close connection with The Bridge for more than 25 years, plans to prioritize enhancing survivor advocacy, expanding prevention programs, and strengthening The Bridge's connections and partnerships with communities across the organization's five-county service area.

  • Suzanne Smith's retirement as Executive Director of The Bridge From Violence is effective March 20, 2026.
  • Cathi Sampson has been appointed as the new Executive Director of The Bridge From Violence.

The players

Suzanne Smith

The outgoing Executive Director of The Bridge From Violence, who is retiring after more than 27 years of dedicated leadership at the organization.

Cathi Sampson

The incoming Executive Director of The Bridge From Violence, who has maintained a close connection with the organization for more than 25 years, including serving as a full-time advocate, an Enhanced Crisis Line Volunteer, and a men's group facilitator, as well as a member of the Board of Directors and Board President.

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What they’re saying

“I know how fortunate I am to have spent my career doing work I love, supported every step of the way by an incredible family. I am deeply grateful and proud of this organization and of every person who has shaped the impact of our services, including all our incredible staff, board members, volunteers, committed supporters, courageous survivors, and colleagues who became friends. I could not be more excited for The Bridge's future under Cathi's leadership. She brings vision, energy, strength, and kindness to everything she does.”

— Suzanne Smith, Outgoing Executive Director

“It is an incredible honor to step into this role at The Bridge. Suzanne's leadership over the past 27 years has shaped this organization in extraordinary ways, and her mentorship has deeply influenced both my career and my passion for this work. While she is truly irreplaceable, I am committed to building on the strong foundation she created and continuing The Bridge's mission to prevent and eliminate domestic violence and sexual assault.”

— Cathi Sampson, Incoming Executive Director

What’s next

Cathi Sampson will officially assume the role of Executive Director of The Bridge From Violence on March 20, 2026, following Suzanne Smith's retirement.

The takeaway

The transition of leadership at The Bridge From Violence ensures the organization's continued commitment to its mission of preventing and eliminating domestic violence and sexual assault. Suzanne Smith's legacy of growth and impact will be carried forward by Cathi Sampson, who brings extensive experience and a deep passion for the organization's work.