FRAMINGHAM — For the first time in its 56-year history, the South Middlesex Opportunity Council has named a woman to lead the anti-poverty organization. 

Susan Gentili, of Marlborough, a longtime employee and currently the chief program officer at SMOC, will be promoted to president and chief executive officer on July 1. She will replace James Cuddy, who has led SMOC for the last 35 years and is retiring.