Leading from the Front: Planned Giving with Ben Smith
Kentucky State University is honored to welcome Ben Smith of Georgetown, Kentucky for a special presentation on planned giving, Leading from the Front. Ben brings a remarkable depth of experience in estate planning, philanthropy, and financial leadership that has shaped both national and international communities.
A proud Kentuckian, Ben is a graduate of Washington and Lee University and has earned three Master of Science degrees. He is a member of Phi Beta Kappa and holds six professional designations, underscoring his commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence. His distinguished career began at American Express and advanced through senior leadership roles including Vice President of GMAC Mortgage, Vice Chairman of GMAC Real Estate, President of GMAC Investment Services, Executive Vice President of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, and Co-CEO of American Partners Bank in Washington, D.C.
Throughout his career, Ben has worked with thousands of financial advisors nationwide and partnered with hundreds of non-profits and churches to create and strengthen estate planning and legacy education programs. His unique blend of financial expertise and philanthropic vision makes him an invaluable resource for individuals and organizations seeking to build enduring legacies.
Through Leading from the Front, Ben will share strategies, tools, and best practices for integrating planned giving into personal financial planning and nonprofit sustainability. His presentation will empower attendees to think not just about financial security, but about creating lasting impact for future generations in the Commonwealth and beyond.