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Tiffany J. Gunter Steps Into Leadership as SMART’s New General Manager, Succeeding Dwight Ferrell

August 7, 2025

Tiffany J. Gunter has been appointed as the new General Manager of the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) following Dwight A. Ferrell's departure on August 1 after four years of service.

Who is affected

  • SMART riders across Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties
  • Working families, seniors, and vulnerable populations who rely on public transit
  • SMART employees including bus drivers, mechanics, and frontline staff
  • Communities throughout Southeast Michigan dependent on public transportation
  • Those historically underserved by transportation systems

What action is being taken

  • Tiffany J. Gunter is being elevated to the position of General Manager at SMART
  • The SMART Board of Directors is supporting Gunter during the leadership transition
  • SMART is continuing to provide essential transportation services connecting residents to jobs, healthcare, and community resources
  • The organization is pursuing new goals and priorities to improve transit in Southeast Michigan

Why it matters

  • Public transit is central to broader conversations about racial equity, climate resilience, and economic access
  • SMART provides critical access to jobs, education, groceries, medical care, and family connections
  • The appointment represents successful internal leadership development rather than relying on external searches
  • Gunter's leadership combines technical expertise with community-oriented priorities in addressing regional transportation needs
  • Her appointment ensures continuity in service and strategic direction for a vital regional transit system

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle