Rachel Smith is a Chief Communications Officer at City of Rahway. Colleagues describe her as "Rachel is one of the most dynamic and compelling professionals I’ve had the opportunity to work with. I first met Rachel when she was recommended to me by a trusted colleague as I was searching for a chief of staff. I was immediately impressed by her professional and proactive nature. Since Rachel started in her position as my Chief of Staff, we have been in daily contact (often numerous times a day!) and she has conducted all her work in an efficient manner and with the highest standards of excellence. Working so closely with Rachel, I have been able to get to know her quite well. She is one of the most impressive colleagues I have had the pleasure to work with in my twenty-year career in politics and higher education. She is always prepared and makes sure she has a thorough understanding of every issue we are working on and goes above and beyond by delving deeper with questions and analysis. Beyond her stellar work performance, Rachel takes leadership in anticipating issues that may arise. As the head of our office staff, Rachel possesses an admirable ability to inspire and lead others. In fact, she is more than a Chief of Staff and is my most trusted advisor as I navigate my role as an assemblywoman. She has a knack for policy analysis and keen sense of how to navigate thorny issues. She is extremely trustworthy and responsible. As Chief of Staff, Rachel oversees research, writes policy memos, and advises me, drawing from her thorough and principled understanding of the issues. Rachel’s ability to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders, her exceptional communication and her tireless work ethic has helped me advance my legislative agenda and serve the constituents of my district effectively. Due to her interest in mentoring young professionals, she also oversees an internship program in my office, and I know she is particularly passionate about inspiring young people to understand and be empowered in political spaces. As I am retiring from the legislature, I will no longer have the privilege of working directly with Rachel, but I am sure her passion, and her many skills and accomplishments will be an asset to any team she decides to join."