Alex Smith

Director of External Affairs for University of West Florida, 25

Working to bring awareness and support to Northwest Florida throughout the state and region is Alex Smith’s goal. He recently joined the University of West Florida as director of external affairs, where he is overseeing the university president’s initiatives to achieve the school’s strategic goals. Prior to this role, Smith served as the special assistant to the mayor of Pensacola, creating partnerships among public and private agencies and advancing the city’s priorities.

What advice would you give to young people with a similar trajectory to yours? 

Be authentic, be humble, work harder than everyone else, honor your word, and be kind to everyone. Learning these traits early and applying them often will lead to future success.

What do you hope to accomplish in the next 5 years? 

My aim is to play a role in helping the University of West Florida to grow and expand its footprint and ensure that UWF continues to be an extremely successful and engaged higher education partner. When I look back at my career one day, I hope that I can say that I have played a role in the growth and expansion that will take place in Northwest Florida over the next decade.

Is there a next great opportunity that you are excited about? 

I am excited and encouraged to work with Dr. Saunders to help expand the University of West Florida’s external engagement. Currently UWF is looking to construct a football stadium that will fundamentally change not only the University of West Florida, but the region.

Who is the single greatest person who influenced/supported your journey to success? 

My parents have been the biggest supporters and influencers in my journey. They have proudly supported me through every phase of my life. They have been a constant and guiding force in my life and have stood by me in every decision that I have made. I would not be who I am or where I am without my parents.

How do you hope to make an impact within your community?  

I aim to bring people/organizations together who might not usually interact with one another to solve problems and create better and more opportunities for others in Northwest Florida. There have been so many that have come before me that have provided opportunities for me. I hope that I can help others who grew up in Northwest Florida develop and realize their potential here in Northwest Florida.