Erica Smith
Erica Smith is a dynamic marketing and media professional whose career blends creativity, strategy, and community impact. With experience spanning nonprofit leadership, corporate consulting, and small-business branding, she brings a multidisciplinary approach to storytelling and audience engagement. As Head of Marketing for the Institute of Public Scholarship, Erica leads brand development, digital strategy, and communications initiatives that amplify research, elevate voices, and drive public awareness. Her work is rooted in purpose—transforming meaningful ideas into compelling messages that resonate.
Alongside her nonprofit work, Erica serves as a Pest Control Consultant for Rentokil North America, where she has spent nearly six years developing expertise in customer service, sales, and client experience. Her strengths in communication and relationship-building have made her a trusted resource to clients across the region. Erica is also the longtime business manager behind MzSmith’s Delightful Desserts, where she oversees operations, supply management, and marketing for the small business she has grown over more than a decade.
Creativity sits at the center of everything Erica does. Whether she’s designing social media content for small businesses and Greek organizations, painting custom pieces, or capturing moments through photography, she thrives in spaces where imagination meets collaboration. A proud graduate of Central Michigan University with a B.S. in Business Administration, Erica brings heart, innovation, and community-centered vision to every project she touches.
• Central Michigan University- B.S.
• BETA PHI BETA SOROITY INC.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the hard work I’ve put into my field over the last 20 years, which gave me the confidence to take the leap and start my own business two years ago. I’m happier, healthier, and more fulfilled than ever, and I truly love what I do—especially getting to help others succeed along the way.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is: You can and you will—believe in your dreams, put in the work, and watch yourself succeed.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to stay the course, trust your path, and learn to persevere through every challenge that comes your way.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field right now is the chance to grow my business as a new founder and CEO, and I’m actively seeking new clients who are ready to partner and build something meaningful together.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are staying open to change, embracing multitasking, and striving for excellence in social media and marketing, all while maintaining my passion for art and using platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to help businesses grow.