Diamond Smith
Diamond Smith is a dedicated military veteran, organizational leader, and passionate advocate for the veteran community. She entered the United States Army at the age of 18 and served 8.5 years as an 88M Motor Transport Operator, including a deployment to Afghanistan. Rising to the rank of Noncommissioned Officer, Diamond played a critical role in ensuring the efficient movement of personnel and supplies, developing leadership skills grounded in discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Adjusting to civilian life after military service presented significant challenges, yet her commitment to serving others remained unwavering.
After beginning her academic journey as a nursing student, Diamond earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership with a minor in Communications from Wright State University in 2025. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Public Administration at Wright State University, focusing on policy analysis, program evaluation, and organizational leadership. Mentorship has been central to her growth, with Dr. Seth Gordon serving as her most impactful mentor. He guided her early advocacy work and helped her launch her college radio show. Diamond hosted and produced Veterans Voices on WSIO 91.3, a platform dedicated to supporting veterans transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Diamond has been a military advocate for three years, supporting veterans through the National Veterans Leadership Foundation and Wright State University’s Veteran & Military Center. She has held a Quality Assurance Internship at Fry Steel Company since May 2025 and is most proud of her advocacy work, leveraging her experience to provide guidance, resources, and a voice for the veteran community. Outside of her professional life, Diamond is an entrepreneur, founding her catering business, Flavor Vault LLC. She enjoys cooking, hiking, and creating meaningful memories with her children. Her career and personal endeavors reflect a deep commitment to leadership, service, and community.
• Wright State University - B.S. Organizational Leadership
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute all of my success to my children. They have been my greatest motivation, inspiring me to work tirelessly and create the best possible life for them. Their presence drives my dedication, resilience, and commitment to achieving both personal and professional goals.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is that not everybody is cut from the same cloth, and the only thing I can truly control is myself. This perspective has guided me to focus on my actions, decisions, and growth, rather than trying to control or compare myself to others.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to know who you are, stand firm in your values, and never allow anyone to tell you otherwise. In a male-dominated field, confidence, self-awareness, and resilience are essential for navigating challenges and achieving success.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field right now is staying current with evolving regulations, adapting to rapidly changing technology, and understanding complex codes, all while navigating these elements simultaneously. This environment also presents opportunities to innovate, streamline processes, and develop expertise that sets leaders apart.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, honesty, and respect. I strive to always treat others the way I would want to be treated, fostering trust, fairness, and meaningful relationships in every environment.
Locations
Wright State University
Fairborn, OH 45324