India Smith

I would say a big part of my success comes from the personal challenges I’ve had to overcome. Early on, a high school teacher told me, “Sometimes we experience things so that we can help others.” That really stuck with me and gave my struggles a sense of purpose. It inspired me to enroll at Columbus State University and pursue a degree in sociology, with the goal of using my experiences to make a difference in other people’s lives. I think my ability to turn challenges into lessons and opportunities for growth has been a guiding force in my journey.

The best career advice I ever received is: “If God calls you, God qualifies you.” To me, this means that when an opportunity or purpose is placed in your path, you are equipped, whether through your skills, experiences, or character, to rise to the challenge. It is a reminder to trust yourself and the process, even when you feel unprepared or uncertain. It also encourages stepping out of your comfort zone, knowing that you are not expected to do it alone. God has already provided what you need to succeed, and your role is to lean into that calling with faith, effort, and perseverance.

I would tell young women entering this industry to stay true to themselves and their values. It can be easy to “go along to get along,” especially when trying to fit in or prove yourself, but the people and organizations that truly respect you are the ones who value your authenticity. There will be times when speaking up with honesty and integrity may feel uncomfortable, but it being true to your principles not only guides your decisions but also sets a standard for how you expect to be treated and how you treat others.

One of the biggest challenges in Human Resources and recruitment right now is attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive job market. Many organizations, including school districts, are facing staffing shortages, and candidates have more options than ever. This requires creativity, persistence, and strong relationship-building to connect with the right people.

At the same time, these challenges present tremendous opportunities. We can reimagine recruitment strategies, leverage technology and social media to reach candidates, and focus on building a strong employer brand that reflects our values and culture.

Integrity is extremely important to me, both personally and professionally. I have been in situations where the people around me lacked integrity, and I realized I could not thrive in those environments. Being honest and ethical in all aspects of life is non-negotiable for me. As my pastor once said, “You may be able to climb to the top without integrity, and perhaps more quickly, but you cannot stay there.”

Hard work and dedication are equally important. My mother and grandmother exemplified both, teaching me the value of fully committing to your goals and responsibilities without expecting anything to be handed to you.

Compassion and empathy are also core values for me. We never truly know what someone else is going through, and the way we treat people can have a profound impact. I keep a quote on a sticky note on my computer that says: “Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly, and most underrated agent of human change.” It reminds me that every interaction matters, and even a small act of kindness can make a lasting difference.