Keyanna (formally Hawkins) Smith, Ed.D
Keyanna (formerly Hawkins) Smith, Ed.D., is a strategic relationship leader at Dominion Energy, known for building high-impact partnerships and advancing initiatives that bridge education, workforce development, and community engagement. She holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership from Northcentral University and a Master of Arts in Human Services from Liberty University, pairing scholarly expertise with hands-on leadership to drive meaningful, sustainable outcomes across sectors.
A certified Academic Life Coach and Myers-Briggs Practitioner, Keyanna brings a people-centered approach to mentorship, leadership development, and organizational growth. Her career reflects a deep commitment to expanding access and opportunity in education. She previously served as Director of Equity Advancement and Early College Programs at Germanna Community College and as an instructor at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, where she taught college success skills to support student persistence and achievement. Earlier roles at Virginia State University and Thomas Nelson Community College further underscore her dedication to cultivating inclusive learning environments that empower students to thrive.
Beyond education, Keyanna’s leadership extends into professional and community development, earning her distinctions such as the Old Dominion University Alumni Association’s 40 Under 40 (Class of 2025) and the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from Insight Into Diversity. Recognized for her strategic vision, mentorship, and commitment to growth, she continues to inspire positive change by helping individuals and organizations reach their full potential.
• Myers Briggs (MBTI) Certified Practitioner
• Certified Academic Life Coach
• Old Dominion University- B.S.
• Liberty University- M.A.
• Northcentral University- Ed.D.
• Old Dominion University Alumni Association’s 40 Under 40 for the Class of 2025
• College and Community Service Award
• The Insight Into Diversity Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award
• Outstanding Classified Employee of the Year
• TRiO Achiever of the Year
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a steadfast commitment to empowering students, cultivating inclusive learning environments, and celebrating the resilience and achievements of individuals as they overcome challenges and shape promising futures. Earning my Doctor of Education and building a career at the intersection of higher education and human services have equipped me with the knowledge, perspective, and tools to lead with intention and impact.
In my current role as a Strategic Relationship Leader at Dominion Energy, I leverage this foundation to strengthen partnerships, advance workforce development initiatives, and build strategic collaborations with faculty, staff, and administrators. These collaborations are essential to creating meaningful pathways that connect education to opportunity and align institutional priorities with real-world workforce needs. Whether in the classroom, across campuses, or through cross-sector initiatives, I remain deeply focused on guiding, supporting, and uplifting others—translating vision into action and ensuring that access, growth, and success are not aspirations, but outcomes.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was to be a sponge and soak up everything—to listen, observe, and learn from every experience and every person in the room. At the same time, I was reminded to trust my perspective and recognize the value of what I bring to the table. Balancing openness to learning with confidence in my voice has shaped how I lead, collaborate, and contribute, allowing me to grow while staying grounded in my purpose and strengths.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to trust yourself—your perspective, your instincts, and your voice. If faith is part of your journey, trust in a higher power as well. Learn from the wisdom and experiences of others, but remember that your most important decisions should ultimately be guided by your own judgment and what feels aligned with your purpose.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and greatest opportunities—in my field right now is building sustainable workforce pipelines through strong partnerships with higher education. As industries evolve and retirements accelerate, there is a critical need to align academic programs with real-world workforce demands. By partnering intentionally with colleges and universities, we have the opportunity to create clear, accessible pathways for students—from the classroom to careers—while ensuring organizations are developing a skilled, diverse, and future-ready workforce. When education and industry work together strategically, the impact extends beyond filling roles; it strengthens communities and long-term economic growth.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me, both professionally and personally, are creativity, self-trust, and self-expression, along with a deep appreciation for finding joy in the small moments—whether that’s designing meaningful visuals or curating music that reflects the different seasons of life—and sharing that light and joy with the people around me.