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Caroline Tanbee Smith
Co-Founder at Collab
Caroline Tanbee Smith is a prominent entrepreneur and community leader based in New Haven, Connecticut. She is the Co-Founder of Collab, a community accelerator that supports local businesses and entrepreneurs in New Haven and Connecticut.2
Background and Education
Caroline was raised in Kentucky by a Korean immigrant mother and a father from North Carolina.1 She moved to New Haven over a decade ago to pursue her undergraduate studies at Yale University.12
Professional Achievements
Collab New Haven:: As the Co-Founder of Collab, Caroline works to provide resources and reduce barriers for New Haven residents looking to start local businesses.1
Community Involvement:: Caroline has been actively involved in various community initiatives, including:
- Serving as chair of the Downtown-Wooster Square Community Management Team
- Co-founding New Haven Bike Month
- Establishing Asian American Pacific Islander New Haven, an affinity space for people of Asian descent in the area1
Recognition:: In 2022, Caroline was honored with the Yale-Jefferson Award for Public Service.3
Political Career
In 2023, Caroline Tanbee Smith filed to run for alder in New Haven's Ward 9.1 She was officially sworn in as Alder of Ward 9 on January 1, 2024.4 As an alder, she focuses on issues such as economic opportunity, climate justice, and LGBTQ+ rights.1
Personal Interests
Caroline is pursuing graduate studies at the Yale School of Management.1 She has expressed a deep connection to New Haven, describing it as a city that "gave her a home" and praising its history, engaged neighbors, and activist spirit.1
Caroline Tanbee Smith's journey from a Yale undergraduate to a community leader and elected official demonstrates her commitment to public service and her dedication to making a positive impact in New Haven.
