Shomaker Joins SmartFinancial Board of Directors
SmartBank, a subsidiary of SmartFinancial, Inc., is proud to announce the appointment of Kelli Shomaker to its esteemed board of directors. This significant decision is effective immediately and marks another step forward in the company’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team with individuals who bring exceptional financial expertise and strategic insight. Shomaker’s impressive career, spanning over 29 years, has been characterized by her dedication to financial stewardship and leadership within the higher education sector.
Shomaker currently holds the prestigious position of Senior Vice President for Business and Administration and Chief Financial Officer at Auburn University, one of the most respected institutions in the South, with an enrollment exceeding 30,000 students. Her leadership in financial planning, resource allocation, and institutional investment strategy has played a pivotal role in ensuring Auburn’s financial sustainability and continued growth. Her ability to navigate the complexities of higher education finance, coupled with her strategic vision, has positioned her as a leader in the field.
Shomaker’s career in finance is marked by a series of impactful roles that highlight her diverse expertise and ability to drive meaningful change. Prior to her tenure at Auburn University, she served in key financial leadership roles at Texas A&M University, one of the largest public universities in the United States. Her experience at Texas A&M further solidified her ability to oversee large-scale financial operations and manage multimillion-dollar budgets with efficiency and transparency.
In addition to her roles in academia, Shomaker’s career extends into the corporate financial sector. She previously worked at U.S. Global Investors, Inc., an investment management firm known for its expertise in global markets. Her experience in investment management provided her with an in-depth understanding of asset allocation, risk assessment, and portfolio management—skills that will be highly valuable to SmartBank. Furthermore, her tenure at PricewaterhouseCoopers, one of the world’s leading professional services firms, gave her substantial experience in audit, tax, and consulting services, further broadening her financial acumen.
Shomaker’s academic credentials are equally impressive. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Texas A&M University, a degree that laid the foundation for her career in finance. She later pursued a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from Auburn University, further enhancing her ability to manage financial operations within large institutions. Her combined expertise in finance and higher education administration has made her a sought-after leader in both sectors.
SmartBank’s leadership team has expressed immense enthusiasm about Shomaker’s addition to the board. Billy Carroll, President and CEO of SmartBank, emphasized the significant impact her expertise will have on the organization.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kelli Shomaker to our board of directors,” said Carroll. “Her exceptional financial acumen, coupled with her proven leadership capabilities, will be pivotal in driving our growth initiatives and strengthening the capabilities of our board.”
Echoing these sentiments, Miller Welborn, Chairman of the Board, highlighted the immense value Shomaker brings to the institution.
“Kelli’s extensive background in finance and her demonstrated leadership are a tremendous asset to our organization,” said Welborn. “We are eager to see the positive impact she will bring to SmartBank.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Shomaker is deeply committed to community enrichment and civic service. Her dedication to giving back is evident in her active participation on multiple boards that support financial stewardship and public service. She currently serves on the boards of the Retirement System of Alabama, the Alabama Public Education Employees Health Insurance Plan, and the Treasury Institute of Higher Education. These roles underscore her commitment to responsible financial management and the well-being of public sector employees.
Shomaker also plays a significant role in supporting youth and education-focused initiatives. She is a board member of the Lee County Boys & Girls Club, an organization dedicated to providing mentorship, educational support, and recreational opportunities for young people. Her involvement in the NABUCO Treasury and Investment Advisory Committee further demonstrates her expertise in financial governance and investment strategy. Additionally, she serves as President of the Dudley Foundation, an organization that supports and benefits the educational pursuits and activities of Auburn University.
When asked about her new role at SmartBank, Shomaker expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to an organization that aligns with her values and professional expertise.
“Joining SmartBank’s Board of Directors is a truly exciting opportunity,” said Shomaker. “Being part of organizations that prioritize innovation, community impact, and growth is something I value greatly, and I look forward to contributing to SmartBank’s bright future.”
SmartBank’s decision to appoint Shomaker to its board reflects its commitment to fostering a strong leadership team that can navigate the ever-evolving financial landscape. As the banking industry continues to face new challenges and opportunities, having a board comprised of experienced, strategic thinkers is critical to long-term success. Shomaker’s addition to the board is expected to enhance SmartBank’s ability to develop forward-thinking financial strategies, optimize operational efficiency, and further solidify its reputation as a trusted financial institution.
The financial services sector has undergone significant transformations in recent years, with advancements in technology, regulatory changes, and shifting customer expectations shaping the industry’s trajectory. SmartBank has consistently positioned itself as a forward-thinking institution, embracing innovation while maintaining a strong commitment to its clients and communities. With Shomaker’s expertise in financial management, investment strategy, and organizational leadership, SmartBank is well-equipped to continue its upward trajectory.
Furthermore, Shomaker’s background in higher education finance brings a unique perspective to the board. Universities operate in a financial environment that requires careful resource allocation, long-term strategic planning, and sustainable investment practices. These skills are highly transferable to the banking sector, where similar principles apply to managing risk, optimizing capital allocation, and ensuring financial stability.
As SmartBank continues to expand its footprint and explore new opportunities for growth, the addition of experienced leaders like Shomaker will be instrumental in shaping its future. Her track record of success, combined with her unwavering commitment to excellence, makes her an invaluable asset to the organization.
SmartBank’s appointment of Kelli Shomaker to its board of directors is a strategic move that underscores the company’s dedication to financial excellence and visionary leadership. With her extensive experience in finance, investment management, and higher education administration, Shomaker is poised to make a meaningful impact on SmartBank’s operations and future growth. Her commitment to civic engagement and community service further aligns with SmartBank’s values, making her an ideal addition to the board. As she embarks on this new role, there is no doubt that her insights and expertise will contribute significantly to SmartBank’s continued success in the financial sector.
