Beverly, MA – March 12, 2025 – Kindbridge Research Institute (KRI), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing research and solutions in behavioral addiction and mental health challenges, today announced a strategic leadership evolution designed to propel its next phase of growth and impact. Effective immediately, Dishi Umfleet will step into the role of Executive Director, while Dr. Nathan D. Smith, KRI’s founding Executive Director, will transition to Director of Research to spearhead the organization’s expanding research agenda.
This leadership shift is a deliberate step to supercharge KRI’s mission, positioning it to meet growing demand for innovative behavioral health solutions. As Executive Director, Dishi Umfleet will oversee operations, forge strategic partnerships, and guide the institute’s long-term vision to ensure KRI remains a trailblazer in behavioral health solutions. Dr. Smith, in turn, will now be able to exclusively focus on expanding KRI’s research initiatives, furthering the institute’s commitment to delivering high-quality, evidence-based insights into mental health and addiction.
“We are at an exciting inflection point in our growth,” said Dishi Umfleet. “This evolution sharpens our focus, enhances our operational efficiencies, and expands our ability to serve communities in need. I’m thrilled to lead our team in scaling our reach while empowering Dr. Smith to push the boundaries of discovery in behavioral health.”
Dr. Smith echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the opportunity to deepen KRI’s research efforts:
“Stepping into the Director of Research role is an exciting opportunity to double down on what I’m most passionate about: pioneering research that transforms lives. This move empowers me to lead cutting-edge studies designed to deliver real solutions for behavioral health problems.”
Dishi Umfleet brings extensive experience in executive leadership, strategic planning, and business transformation to her new role. Since joining KRI as Operations Director, she has played a pivotal role in optimizing the institute’s structure and cultivating key partnerships. Her leadership background includes serving as a Board Member for the Saints Foundation – the charity arm of Southampton Football Club – and holding executive positions in business consulting and management.
Dr. Nathan D. Smith is a nationally recognized scientist and science communicator with a distinguished career in psychiatric epidemiology and behavioral addiction research. As KRI’s founding Executive Director, he has overseen its ascent as a thought leader, and his transition to Director of Research will allow him to focus on advancing evidence-based solutions to real-world problems.
This leadership evolution underscores KRI’s commitment to maximizing its impact through a clear division of strategic and research-focused responsibilities. As KRI continues to grow, these changes will ensure it remains an industry leader in behavioral health research, innovation, and advocacy.
For more information about Kindbridge Research Institute and its mission, please visit www.kindbridgeinstitute.org.
About Kindbridge Research Institute
Kindbridge Research Institute (KRI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing research and solutions for mental health challenges and behavioral addictions. Through strategic collaboration with leading experts, policymakers, and mental health professionals, KRI drives meaningful change and strives to enhance the well-being of individuals and families affected by gambling-related harm, as well as other behavioral health issues.
Media Contact
Patrick Eichner
Communications, Kindbridge Group
[email protected]
908-723-4341