Washington, D.C. (May 14, 2025) – Blockchain Association, the leading trade association representing the crypto industry in Washington, D.C., today announced that Summer Mersinger will join as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking the next step in the Association’s mission to shape the future of digital asset policy in the United States.
Commissioner Mersinger brings exceptional leadership experience at the intersection of innovation, law, and public service, assuming the role at a critical moment for the industry. With her track record of driving regulatory clarity and building coalitions across government and industry, she will spearhead efforts to advance forward-thinking legislation, foster industry growth, and defend the foundational principles of decentralized technology.
Commissioner Mersinger brings more than two decades of public policy and regulatory experience to Blockchain Association. She currently serves as a Commissioner at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), where she plays a key role in shaping federal regulatory policy in the financial markets, including policies impacting digital assets. Prior to her appointment at the CFTC, Mersinger held senior staff roles in both chambers of Congress and as a longtime advisor to Senate Majority Leader John Thune. Her deep understanding of legislative and regulatory processes uniquely positions her to lead Blockchain Association in advocating for thoughtful, forward-looking digital asset policy. Her last day at the agency will be May 30.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Commissioner Mersinger as Blockchain Association’s new CEO,” said Marta Belcher, President of the Board of Blockchain Association. “This is a pivotal moment for crypto policy, and we are confident that she is the ideal leader to take Blockchain Association, and the industry, to new heights.”
She succeeds Kristin Smith, who built the Association from a staff of one to the formidable force it is today on Capitol Hill – growing membership from a handful of pioneering crypto companies to more than 125 leading organizations. The Association’s Board is grateful to Kristin for her extraordinary leadership during a formative period for this evolving industry in Washington.
Blockchain Association is also pleased to announce that Sarah Milby, Blockchain Association’s Head of Policy, will serve as interim CEO following Smith’s last day as CEO on May 16, serving until Commissioner Mersinger assumes the role of CEO on June 2.
Blockchain Association remains focused on its core mission: building a clear and supportive regulatory framework for the U.S. digital asset industry – one that promotes responsible innovation, protects consumers, and preserves national competitiveness in the digital economy.
About Blockchain Association: Blockchain Association is the collective voice of the cryptocurrency industry. Our members include the sector’s leading investors, companies, and projects, working together to support a future-forward, pro-innovation national policy and regulatory framework for the crypto economy. Find us at theblockchainassociation.org. Follow us @BlockchainAssn.
