Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Names Smita Baruah as Executive Vice President, Global Tobacco Control Programs
June 17, 2024
Washington, D.C. – The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids today named Smita Baruah as Executive Vice President for Global Tobacco Control Programs to lead the organization’s advocacy efforts to reduce tobacco use in low- and middle-income countries around the world.
Ms. Baruah brings more than 20 years of experience in policy, advocacy and communications as a senior leader for global humanitarian, development and public health issues. Ms. Baruah is an expert in global health and has represented organizations across Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America. She also brings a passion for public health equity and sustainability at the global level.
Ms. Baruah most recently served as the Associate Vice President of Government Relations, Policy, Advocacy and Campaigns at Save the Children US where she was responsible for guiding the strategic direction of the organization’s international and domestic policy agenda and setting annual policy priorities. Prior to her role at Save the Children, Ms. Baruah served as the Interim CEO at the Global Health Council where she also served as the Director of Government Relations. Ms. Baruah received an MA in international development from American University and a bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University.
“We are thrilled to have Smita join the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids as Executive Vice President for Global Tobacco Control Programs. Her deep knowledge of public health and international policy advocacy will be crucial to our continued fight to drive down tobacco use in low- and middle-income countries,” said Yolonda C. Richardson, President and CEO of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. “Smita is widely recognized as an expert in public health and shares our passion for building a healthier, more equitable future for all.”
“I am delighted to join the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids to tackle the world’s leading cause of preventable death alongside a seasoned team of global experts and advocates,” Ms. Baruah said. “The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids is saving lives, exposing Big Tobacco’s deadly tactics and working hand in hand with governments and advocates around the world. I am honored to be joining this life-saving mission.”