2021 WEC Speaker, Marcia Barry-Smith

Marcia Barry-Smith has been described as and recognized as an influential Community Advocate in several fields and with numerous accomplishments.

Before joining Habitat for Humanity of Broward in October 2016, Jamaican born, Barry-Smith served as Senior Vice President of BankAtlantic and Executive Director of the Bank's Foundation. She has over 25 years’ experience in banking, was educated at the University of Toronto, where she earned her degree in Sociology. Marcia is highly regarded in the national arena as an expert in and advocate for Victims of Domestic Violence, and issues pertaining to Affordable Housing and Community Development.

Barry-Smith's nationally acclaimed Homeless to Homeownership Club (H2H) program has elevated hundreds of families from homelessness to homeownership, empowering them to strive to attain independence and financial fitness.

A self-described “VICTOR”, Marcia Barry-Smith lends her voice to speak out against social injustice, especially domestic violence, as well as the plight of youth aging out of foster care. In her current role as Habitat's Director of Community Outreach and Program Services, Barry­Smith works to develop innovative opportunities for Habitat Families who aspire to become homeowners. She collaborates with local, private and public entities and service providers, to create revitalization in the Habitat Neighborhoods within Broward County and serves on the Policy/Advocacy and Advisory Committee for Habitat for Humanity International.

Barry-Smith has been honored by the Broward County Commissioners who named November 1st, 2013 as “Marcia Barry-Smith Day”. Most recently, she received the "Inclusive Economic Opportunity Award" from the Unite d Nations Association of the

U.S.A. In July 2018, Marcia Barry-Smith was elected Chair of Broward Housing Council (BCH). BCH serves in an advisory capacity to the County Commission and helps facilitate coordination between the county, municipality, the business community and not-for-profit groups to address housing issues including, affordable housing, workforce housing, homelessness and more.