DeAnna Smith

As a CPA, I enjoyed a rewarding career for nearly 20 years, including serving as CFO at my alma mater. While my work benefited students, my heart longed for the classroom, where I could directly impact their growth while shaping the future of accounting. My own faculty enriched my life—serving as mentors, professional references, and lifelong friends. Now, I strive to provide that same support and inspiration to this generation.

I teach Social Entrepreneurship and Sustainability, where students plan and execute an event for local nonprofits. I've seen their creativity, resourcefulness, and passion firsthand. Over the short number of years offered, the students have raised over $30,000, with one year exceeding $9,000 alone. Events have included 5K races, cooking competitions, and a community-wide Easter event. Seeing their pride in their work and the success at the end of the event is incredibly rewarding as a teacher.

To teach at my alma mater, I needed a doctoral degree. The cost of a program that fit my family and schedule was high, but I was determined to pursue my dream job. I would use the award to pay down my student loan while also setting aside a portion to reinvest in my professional development as a teacher and to provide resources for my students who may be struggling financially to remain in school.