Tania Smith ’15, ’25M

Tania Smith ’15, ’25M has always been driven by a passion for helping others and creating positive change. Her time at UNCW offered her opportunities to make a meaningful impact. 

“During my time at UNCW, I was able to participate in an internship with the Domestic Violence Shelter and Services, Inc., which provided the practical knowledge and connections that I needed to start my first job at the Rape Crisis Center of the Coastal Horizons Center as the Latinx advocate right after graduating,” Smith said. 

After her time at the Coastal Horizons Center, Smith returned to the Domestic Violence Shelter and Services, Inc. to become a court advocate. 

“It felt like such a full-circle moment to be able to work in a field I was passionate about with an agency that helped me grow,” she said.  

Since graduating with a bachelor's degree in criminology, Smith has built an impressive resume. In January 2022, she became the lead advocate for Campus Advocacy, Resources and Education (CARE) at UNCW, the on-campus resource for students, staff and faculty who are impacted by interpersonal violence. CARE is a safe first step for students and employees to feel validated and find support. It provides programs, supportive counseling and discussion groups. 

“I really appreciate this role as I am surrounded by some of the best colleagues, have an opportunity to work with students who are phenomenal, and have been able to pursue other passions and interests,” she said  “This role allowed me to take care of myself, which is so important in this type of field that can cause major burnout due to vicarious trauma and systems fatigue.” 

When she was an undergraduate student, she admired CARE and aspired to join their team one day. Now, she is grateful for her work experience with CARE. 

“I really want to reiterate how wonderful everyone is at CARE. My last three years in graduate school would not have been possible without their support and encouragement.” 

Smith additionally worked with Centro Hispano as a Master in Social Work intern.

“As an intern for Centro Hispano, I credit the space for allowing me to practice my skills in research, supportive counseling, groups and programming in a way that honored my current level and allowed me to blossom,” Smith said. 

She also participates in La Conexón, the Hispanic/Latino faculty and staff association. After a busy few years, Smith is looking forward to accomplishing some personal goals. 

“I have accomplished a lot over the years and honestly hope to focus on giving myself a break,” she said. “I am proud of the work I’ve done on and off campus and feel like I would like to focus on personal goals at this time.”