Tree Trust Announces Departure of Executive Director and CEO Jared Smith



Tree Trust Announces Departure of Executive Director and CEO Jared Smith

GlobeNewswire

October 15, 2025


St. Paul, MN, Oct. 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tree Trust, a Minnesota-based nonprofit, today announced that Jared Smith, Executive Director and CEO, has decided to leave Tree Trust, with his departure to take place on November 20, 2025. He is leaving to take a position in a faith-based organization where he will continue his dedication to serving others.

Smith led Tree Trust through incredible change and growth, providing steady guidance and direction for the organization. He worked tirelessly to strengthen, refine, and expand Tree Trust's Career Pathways, Community Forestry, and Landscape Services divisions to meet the evolving needs of Minnesota and serve the community. His leadership has helped cement Tree Trust as a respected organization in the community, strengthened relationships with stakeholders on individual, corporate, foundation, and government levels, and grown the Tree Trust mission to a nearly $10 million organization. Tree Trust is grateful for his contributions and wishes him success in his future endeavors.

The board of directors has given Board Chair Michael Huntington full authority and oversight of day-to-day operations on an interim basis, effective immediately. Tree Trust's mission, programs, and services will continue without interruption.

Huntington stated, “As we embark on this transition, our focus remains steadfast on the communities and people we serve. With the support of our dedicated staff and board, we will ensure continuity in our programs and services. Together, we will continue to ensure a bright future of transforming lives and landscapes.”

The search for a new executive director is underway, with a focus on identifying a leader whose core competencies align with Tree Trust's mission, vision, and values.

About Tree Trust

Tree Trust, a nonprofit founded in 1976 and based in St. Paul, Minnesota, focuses on transforming lives and landscapes. Tree Trust accomplishes this mission by providing meaningful opportunities for greening local communities through tree planting and offering youth valuable work skills and experience through practical job training, creating a brighter future of self-sufficiency. Learn more at www.treetrust.org.

Press inquiries

Tree Trust
https://treetrust.org/
Anne-Marie Hendrickson
anne-marie.hendrickson@treetrust.org
952-767-3880


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