Blockchain Association Replaces Mersinger with Interim CEO Kristin Smith

Summer Mersinger is stepping down as CEO of the Blockchain Association, effective October 16. She'll remain an advisor until December 31, 2026. Kristin Smith, who co-founded the organization and served as its first CEO from 2018 to May 2025, will take over as interim CEO on October 17.

The leadership change comes at a challenging time for the Blockchain Association. The US Senate recently declined to advance the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, a bill that had cleared the House and was seen as a potential breakthrough moment for the industry.

Mersinger arrived at the Blockchain Association in June 2025 after serving as a commissioner at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. During her tenure, the GENIUS Act, which provides a regulatory framework for stablecoins, passed in July 2025.