Smith Returns as Interim Blockchain Association CEO Amid Senate Crypto Setbacks

Kristin Smith is taking over as interim CEO of the Blockchain Association on October 17. She will be replacing Summer Mersinger, who leaves her post on October 16 after serving as the association's CEO since June 2025.

Smith has a long history with the organization, having been its first hire when it launched in 2018 and running it as CEO until 2025. She left to head up the Solana Policy Institute but retained her position as president of the association's board.

Despite taking on additional duties at the Blockchain Association, Smith will not be resigning from her role at the Solana Policy Institute. Her work at the institute doesn't change, and she described the new responsibilities as 'in addition' to her existing duties.