Kendra Charisse Smith is a visionary operational leader, devoted community builder, and lifelong advocate for justice. A proud daughter of Oak Cliff and graduate of Dallas ISD’s Talented & Gifted Magnet at Townview, her path has been rooted in excellence and service. 

After earning a B.A. in International Business and Japanese Studies from Dillard University and an MBA from Pepperdine University, Kendra spent over 15 years at The Boeing Company leading complex negotiations and operational strategies worth more than $1 billion. Alongside her corporate career, she championed equity through leadership roles with Urban League affiliates in Los Angeles, Northern Virginia, and Seattle, and co-founded the Los Angeles chapter of the National Association of Women MBAs. 

In 2023, Kendra joined Bonton Farms, where she advanced from Executive Assistant to Chief of Staff and now Director of Operations. Known affectionately as “the cost-down queen,” she leads enterprise-wide operations, modernizes systems, manages cross-functional initiatives, and produces major community events.  

Beyond her role at Bonton Farms, Kendra serves as Interim Secretary of the Swan Strings Board and has been active in the Junior League since 2012. She also teaches Kundalini Yoga weekly at the Bonton Wellness Center and is pursuing Brain Longevity Therapy Training through the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation. 

For Kendra, service is not simply an interest but a core, actionable principle of her leadership philosophy. Guided by the belief that “to whom much is given, much is required,” she continues to lead, mentor, and create spaces where transformation thrives.