Our leadership

The people behind
the mission.

Saint John CDC is guided by dedicated community leaders who have invested decades in Anacostia and Ward 8.

Beverly Smith
Co-Director

Beverly Smith

M.A., NCC, LCPC
Serving since 2008

Beverly Smith holds a Master's degree from the University of Maryland and has been a National Board Certified Counselor since 1997. A retired Certified Inspector General Investigator, she brings integrity, accountability, and strategic leadership to her community work.

Since 2008, Beverly has served as Co-Director of the Saint John Community Development Corporation, building strong partnerships with local and national organizations — including schools, libraries, faith-based ministries, family and medical service providers, the Effie Barry AIDS Program, and community education groups. She also helped lead Town Hall collaborations with the D.C. Government focused on economic development, education, and health & wellness.

With deep experience in counseling, community engagement, and interagency collaboration, Beverly remains committed to strengthening communities, expanding access to essential resources, and improving quality of life for residents.

Anthony Smith
Founding Member

Anthony Smith

Since 2007

Anthony Smith is a lifelong resident of the DMV with an enduring commitment to community empowerment and civic engagement. After a distinguished 43-year, award-winning career in risk management, he retired and devoted himself to community service with even greater dedication.

As an original member of the Saint John Community Development Corporation, founded in November 2007, Anthony helped launch one of its first initiatives — an AIDS/HIV prevention program in partnership with a local food retailer. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the CDC's mission and impact.

A former Boys Club baseball coach of nine years, Anthony has spent decades mentoring young people in teamwork, discipline, and character. He believes residents should “own their neighborhoods” — taking pride, responsibility, and an active role in shaping their community's future through education, meaningful work, strong family values, and civic participation.

Daniel J. Hyatt
Director

Daniel J. Hyatt

B.S. & M.S., Business Management
Trustee Board Chair, Saint John CME Church

Daniel James Hyatt is a native Washingtonian and a Director of the Saint John Community Development Corporation. Those who know him will tell you he has a natural gift of humor. It began when he was a little boy telling jokes and pulling pranks, and it has stayed with him through every stage of his education, career, and service.

After his family moved to Maryland, Daniel graduated from Potomac Senior High School. He earned an associate degree in business management from Prince George's Community College and a two-year certification in electronics from Technical Electronic Solid-State Technology (TESST). He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in business management, with a concentration in Human Resources Management, and a master's degree in business management from the University of Maryland.

A go-getter from the start, Daniel began his career as an Electronic Technician with several corporations. Six years later he joined the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) as a Rail Car Electro-Mechanic and advanced to Technical Skills Training Instructor. He retired from WMATA after 32 years of service and has since been asked to return to the transportation industry as a contractor to share his expertise. He is also active in real estate construction and investments.

Daniel attended Saint John CME Church with his family as a young boy and, as a young adult, recommitted his life to Christ. He is part of the very fabric of Saint John, having served on Ministry 2 Men, the Trustee Board, the Combined Choir, and the Men's Choir. Today he serves as Trustee Board Chair, Ministry 2 Men Vice Chair, and Director of the Saint John CDC. He is married to the love of his life, Cheri' Hembrey Hyatt, and treasures his relationships with family and friends.

Daniel is quick to say that none of his accomplishments would have been possible without the Lord, who has been with him every step of the way and has always led the way.

Favorite book of the Bible: Romans · Favorite scripture: Philippians 4:4-9 · Favorite hymn: “Solid Rock”

Interested in serving?

Saint John CDC welcomes community members who want to help lead the work. Reach out to learn about board and volunteer opportunities.

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