Her Story
About Amanda
Amanda Smith is a public administration and tribal governance professional serving as Tribal Governance Initiatives Administrator for the Pascua Yaqui Tribe in Tucson, Arizona. In her current role, she oversees two major federal initiatives involving multi-million-dollar programs designed to support Native American communities through social services, education, and community stability. Her broader professional background encompasses local government, public policy, economic development, transportation, government relations, and organizational strategy, with a strong emphasis on translating ideas into effective programs and public services.
Amanda earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Anthropology from the University of Arizona, followed by a Master of Public Administration and a Master’s in Legal Studies from the same institution. She has also completed coursework toward a Certified Economic Development credential, is pursuing the Certified Public Manager program through Arizona State University, and is working toward a Six Sigma Black Belt. Her professional accomplishments include being named an Arizona Association for Economic Development Member of the Year in 2022 and a 40 Under 40 honoree by the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Arizona Daily Star in 2021. She also contributed to the team that helped pass the Regional Transportation Authority Plan, a multi-billion-dollar transportation initiative for Pima County.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Amanda is deeply involved in community and civic service. She has served on the board of Planned Parenthood Arizona, including as immediate past chair after six years of board service, and has volunteered with Greater Tucson Leadership, the Junior League of Tucson, Pima Community College, and the League of Women Voters. Her professional philosophy centers on strategic governance, collaboration, stakeholder engagement, institutional strengthening, and sustainable community development. She encourages women entering government to remain patient and persistent, embrace the long-term nature of public-sector work, and creatively navigate barriers while continuing to pursue meaningful change.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Amanda
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Government is a slow burn. For ambitious women who enter the field wanting to hit the ground running, I would encourage them not to become discouraged by roadblocks or a lack of immediate traction. The red tape is real, particularly in local government, and success often requires taking the long view. I believe it is important to be creative, look for ways to overcome barriers, and remain persistent even when progress feels slow. It is ultimately a lesson in patience, and the results are especially rewarding when those efforts finally come together.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.