Derek L. Smith Email & Phone Number

As the Director of Student Activities at Atlanta Technical College, I oversee a broad spectrum of programs, clubs, and student organizations aimed at enriching the campus experience for our diverse student body. In this capacity, I am dedicated to fostering a vibrant campus life that supports both the educational and social development of our students. In addition to my work in student activities, I serve as an Adjunct Instructor at the same institution. I also provide career coaching services in private practice, helping individuals explore and advance their careers.My mission is to empower youth and young adults -regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, self-identity, or socio-economic status by helping them navigate their educational and career journeys. I am passionate about closing the educational gap for marginalized student populations and increasing student engagement and retention. To support these goals, I have developed and implemented several impactful initiatives, including the Summer Bridge Program, the All-Star Collegiate Leadership Academy, and the Student Unity Alliance.I have received multiple awards in recognition of my work, including the Summer Bridge Certificate of Appreciation, the IRSC River Award and Presidential Cup, the Certificate of Outstanding Dedication and Performance, and the Most Inspirational Player Award.As a proud first-generation college graduate, I am currently pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree in Higher Education Leadership from National University. My doctoral research focuses on how Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) assess and define success for LGBTQIAP+ students. I hold a Master of Arts in Education from Argosy University, Atlanta, and a Bachelor of Applied Science from Indian River State College. With a diverse background in higher education, I bring a broad skill set that includes instructional leadership, counseling, mentoring, academic advisement, career and life coaching, student development, recruitment, organizational and project management, research, and strategic planning.

Listed skills include Training, Leadership, Public Speaking, Event Planning, and 36 others.