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Darren Smith currently serves as the Executive Director of the Staunton Downtown Development Association since July 2024. Prior experience includes working as a Research and GIS Analysis Consultant for the Allegheny-Blue Ridge Alliance from April 2023 to March 2024. As the Founder and CEO at Traipse from January 2014 to January 2024, Darren demonstrated entrepreneurial leadership. Previous positions include Transportation Policy Contract Associate roles at both Bellwether and MZ Strategies, LLC, and serving as a Policy Representative for the National Association of Realtors, focusing on Smart Growth and Community Affairs from November 2010 to November 2013. From April 2006 to November 2010, Darren functioned as a Transportation Planner III with the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, and earlier positions include a combination of roles at the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy from 2000 to 2004. Educational qualifications include a Master of Urban Affairs and Planning from Virginia Tech and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Legal Institutions, Economics, and Government from American University.