Crystal Smith, M.Ed.

I would first like to acknowledge that one of the greatest attributes to my success is my mother, who raised six children on her own. I watched her work multiple jobs, and even when times were hard, she never gave up. From her, I learned determination, patience, resilience, and the drive to keep moving forward no matter the circumstances.

I am also grateful to all of my siblings, who were not only brothers and sisters, but also babysitters, supporters, and a steady foundation whenever I needed help along my journey. Many people counted me out when I had my first child in high school and dropped out without a clear direction for my future. Although it took time for me to turn things around, return to school, and complete my education, I remained patient and determined.

As I continued my journey, I met my husband, Aaron Smith II, who introduced me to a whole new world of possibilities. He has been a major part of the influential woman I am today. Through every challenge, he stood faithfully by my side while also working full-time and serving our family with dedication and love.

I also believe every influential woman has a village past, present, and future made up of people who help shape her leadership, motivation, and growth. I would like to thank Katrice Reed, Tracy Williams, Sherwood Henry, Damaris Fearon Martin, ReShunda Morrow, Roland Green, Sonia Gulley, Tomeka Crockett, Cashunda Thompson, Cody Cotton, and Clevetta Brown for the wisdom, encouragement, and examples they have provided throughout my life.

A special thanks to Linda Hurst, founder of Higher Heights Adult Private School, who showed me what true strength looks like. Through her drive and determination to serve those in need, she has demonstrated what being an influential woman is all about.

A very special thank you goes to Dr. Kimberly Pearson. Dr. Pearson a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and serves as the CEO and Clinical Director of Loving Yourself Counseling Agency. She has taken me under her wing as a counseling student and has given me a fresh perspective on the next phases of my life and career.

Last but certainly not least, I thank my beautiful son and daughter who remind me every day how proud they are to call me Mom. Their love inspires me to keep striving and becoming better.

My village may be small, but they are mighty. Each person has poured leadership, strength, guidance, and encouragement into me when I doubted myself. I will forever be grateful for my village, and I will continue to make them proud because part of their light shines through me.

The most impactful career advice I have ever received was simple, yet life-changing: “believe in me.”

Because of personal life experiences, I once found myself in circumstances similar to those faced by the individuals and communities TLC now serves. As a teen mother who did not initially finish high school, with limited support as my life changed so quickly, I often struggled with self-doubt and questioned my own potential. I had to ask myself: Do I truly believe in me?

Once I made that mindset shift, everything began to change. I was able to finish high school, earn my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, open my own nonprofit, and pursue a career in counseling. Through every challenge and every season of growth, one mantra continues to guide me: I believe in me.

I would tell young women entering this industry to believe in themselves. In fact, that is the mantra I encourage them to say: “I believe in me.” Too often, we become attached to the labels society places on us and begin to believe those labels define who we are. But they do not. Where you are today is not where you have to remain tomorrow, so keep moving forward. Coming from my own experience as a teen mother who dropped out of school, I know what it feels like when people count you out or underestimate your potential.I want young women to understand that their past does not determine their future, and society’s opinions do not define their worth. Believe in yourself, stay committed to your growth, and know that you have the power to create meaningful impact and build a path that aligns with your purpose.

I believe the biggest challenge in the nonprofit sector right now is that there are simply not enough resources and funding to meet the growing needs of the community. More individuals and families need support than ever before, yet many people do not realize that someone does not have to be homeless to need help. There are many people who are working, caring for families, and trying to survive, yet still need assistance, life skills classes, financial education, and support in learning how to become self-sufficient. I also believe we need more community centers and organizations offering programs that pour back into the community spaces where people can access resources, education, mentorship, and encouragement.The greatest opportunity I see is the ability to make a real and lasting difference in people’s lives by providing educational assistance, workforce development, and supportive services that help individuals regain stability and independence. There is also tremendous opportunity in life coaching for those who may not need mental health counseling, but simply need guidance, accountability, and support as they navigate their personal or professional journey.

The values most important to me are connection and honesty. In both my personal and professional life, it is important to build genuine connections in order to create positive relationships. In this field, many people can recognize when someone is not authentic. If individuals do not feel that your intentions are sincere or that you truly care about helping them, it can be difficult to build trust. Without trust, meaningful connections cannot form, and people may be less willing to open up or allow you to provide support.Honesty is equally important. People want to know that when it comes to receiving support, they are being treated with truth and transparency. No one wants to feel deceived. It is important to speak up, communicate clearly, and be truthful in every situation.

In both my personal life and career, connection creates trust, and honesty creates growth. Together, these values guide how I live, lead, and serve others.