Behind the Scenes: Meet Candace Smith

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Candace Smith
Director of Women's Basketball Operations
Years at Akron- 12
Alma Mater:
B.S. in Finance '08 [Central Michigan]
M.B.A. in Healthcare Administration '11 [University of Akron]

What was the deciding factor that brought you to UA?
Akron is my home! When I initially was offered the graduate assistant position with women's basketball, I was ecstatic, because I had the opportunity to do what I love, in the city I love. Becoming a part of the Akron Zips, family was a no brainer to me.

How has your position changed over the years?
My position has definitely changed as I've gradually taken on more responsibility over the years. What started out as a job in which I strictly handled team travel and community service events has evolved into a position that has given me the opportunity to be involved in essentially every facet of the athletics department in some capacity as it relates to the women's basketball office.

What are your current responsibilities?
The bulk of my position entails handling the day-to-day and business operations of the office as well as team travel arrangements, camps and clinics, special events, and community service opportunities.

Do you have a favorite memory to share?
Experiencing the NCAA Tournament with our 2013-14 MAC Championship team is definitely a favorite memory of mine. It was my first time participating in the Big Dance as either a player or staff member, so it was a special moment without question.

What advice would you give to a college student who wants to pursue a career in collegiate athletics?
Be a sponge! Try to get as much exposure to your desired field as you can as an undergrad. Not only will this give you a glimpse into what your job may look like in the future, but it also begins to forge those important relationships with coaches and administrators who can to help you along the way. Never be afraid to ask for insight; there are so many people who are more than willing to assist you in any way they can.

What makes you most proud to be a Zip?
There was already a sense of innate pride in being a Zip, simply because I'm from Akron and it's the university I've grown up around my entire life. Once I was able to begin working within the athletics department and be involved throughout campus in different ways, that pride grew exponentially, because I was able to see just how much our campus community cares about the well-being and success of our students and of the university as a whole. Being an even tighter community within athletics, it's always great to see how we all celebrate everyone's "wins" and also support each other when things may be challenging.

Anything you'd like to add:
I'm so grateful for the time I've spent at Akron so far and all of the people here I've been able to cross paths with over the years. It's really been a blessing, and I appreciate everyone who has helped shape me professionally during this time!

The University of Akron Athletics

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