Board: ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis (president)
Billie Jean Smith, intellectual property attorney at Milwaukee-based Boyle Fredrickson S.C., has more than 30 years of experience in her field. Her technical background in engineering gives her insight into the issues innovators face when procuring and protecting their intellectual property rights. She also has served as a member or leader for 28 arts, women and girls, and economic development organizations in Milwaukee and beyond.
Smith was named board president of ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis in 2020, having joined the board four years prior and serving as board treasurer from 2018-20. She led ABCD through the financial obstacles of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring its services were available during an exceptionally difficult time for breast cancer patients and survivors.
“Billie has made a significantly positive impact in our community,” said Ellen Friebert Schupper, executive director of ABCD. “She dedicates 15-20 hours per week to ABCD, providing leadership, commitment and significant amounts of time to ensure the short- and long-term sustainability of our organization. … Billie is a visionary leader who is willing to take risks and try new things to elevate awareness of ABCD’s work while expanding our donor base.”
