Terrance D. Smith

TERRANCE D. SMITH is an aspiring university president and Higher Education professional with interests in men's development, faith and spirituality, and peer mentorship. Terrance has strengths in the areas of vision casting, strategic planning, and developing cohesive teams with a strong relational focus. Terrance’s approach to working with students is tailored to each person. He often refers to his work as “planting seeds for future growth.” He believes that patience and consistency are key instruments to sowing discipline, responsibility, and reflection in the lives of students. Terrance, a current student in the University of Georgia (UGA) College Student Affairs Administration doctoral program, received his master's degree in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in College Student Development from Oklahoma State University (OSU). While at OSU, Terrance received the NASPA-IV West Rising Star Award and Outstanding Student of the Year for the College Student Development Program. Prior to attending OSU, Terrance was a student at Mississippi State University where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. Terrance currently serves as an Area Coordinator with University Housing at UGA where he oversees a housing population of approximately 2,000 first year students. Prior to arriving at UGA, Terrance served as a Residence Education Coordinator for Residential Life at Purdue University. Terrance takes great pride in being able to counsel, mentor, advise, and educate young men through the facilitation and development of their personal and professional growth. Terrance’s passion for working with young men has stemmed from the life experiences and meaningful connections he has had throughout his life. This led Terrance to creating a program in which he has the opportunity to share his knowledge and passion with others. Terrance is the founder of About Manhood, a program designed to promote healthy masculinity through values and identity exploration, by sharing the stories and journeys of college men. Terrance believes that education is the most powerful tool we can use to change the world. He has committed himself to helping students find purpose and meaning during their time at the university by leading and empowering others to take ownership of their learning experiences.