Adrain Smith Named NASPA Nia Award Winner

Adrain Smith, director of leadership and diversity initiatives in the Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education, was recently awarded the NASPA (National Association of Student Personnel Administrators) African American Knowledge Community Nia Award for Mid-Level Professionals.

Smith accepted his award via a virtual celebration on March 22, during the NASPA Annual Conference, which was also held virtually this year. This award is presented to an "exemplary mid-level professional in student affairs... (who) demonstrates the principle of Nia, which means purpose that encourages us to look within ourselves and to set personal goals that are beneficial to the community."

"In my 18 years as an educator, I have always strived to be purposeful about all things," Smith said. "I am not the greatest programmer, adviser, administrator or coordinator, but what I am is a person deeply invested in helping others to become and to fulfill their life's purpose."

Leslie Yingling, associate dean of students and assistant vice chancellor for student success and multicultural initiatives, works with Smith in the Multicultural Center.

"Adrain's energy, experience and education in student and professional development make him a go-to resource, adviser and confidante for many professionals in our division and for our student community," Yingling said. "He puts his mind, heart and soul into student services and student success and into effective student affairs mentoring and leadership. He is a wonderful colleague and outstanding professional in our field."

"I have merely tried to be a conduit, a connection, a catalyst and a consistent influence in their lives by the way I live mine — values based, authentically, unapologetically with a mindset rooted in transforming lives through purpose," Smith said.

Marsha Norvell, retired executive assistant to the vice chancellor for the Student Affairs Division, worked with Smith for many years and supported his nomination for the award.

"As you all know, the pandemic has created difficult times on campus," Norvell wrote in her letter of support. "Adrain has reached out and connected with his students, making sure they feel heard, supported and cared for. He has them reflect, set goals and check in regularly. He checks on me weekly as well, which I greatly appreciate. There is no one with a bigger heart than Adrain. He is truly an outstanding person who never expects recognition, but is always generously reaching out to give support."

Yingling agreed with Norvell. "He gives his all to guarantee that students, student employees, graduate assistants and full-time professionals get the most out of their experiences with our department and our division. He helps to ensure that we all benefit from an environment rich in creativity, curiosity and connection and busy with goal-oriented practice, learning and growth," Yingling said.

Smith said one of his greatest purposes in life is to be the father of and to Hayden and Miles Smith, his two children. "2020 has reminded me the importance of celebrating all things that deserve acknowledgement and celebration. So, I celebrate each and every one who is here and are striving to live life on purpose, with purpose and for a purpose," he said. 

"I am working to become a better me, so that I can fulfill my life's purpose," Smith said. "To all my colleagues, mentors and friends in the profession: thank you for assisting me along the way. I am grateful for all who have, and continue to, uplift me, invest in me and champion me." 

Read more about Smith in the Q&A in our Student Affairs Bulletin.