Deidre W. Smith

Deidre Ward-Smith is the HBCUI Program Manager and a retired federal leader with more than 30 years of service dedicated to workforce development, leadership, education, and public service. A native of Andalusia, Alabama, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing with a minor in Forestry from Alabama A&M University and later completed a master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Strayer University. Throughout her distinguished federal career, Deidre developed extensive expertise in leadership, human resources, workforce planning, employee development, civil rights programs, and organizational management.

Before retiring from federal service, Deidre served as the Deputy Civil Rights Director for Zone V with the U.S. Forest Service. She also held several key leadership positions, including National Equal Opportunity Specialist, Acting Branch Chief for Program Compliance and Reporting, Regional Equal Opportunity Specialist, Personnel Officer for the National Forests in Alabama, and Liaison Officer for the Multicultural Workforce Strategic Initiative (MWSI) Program. Through these roles, she helped develop programs that connected students with scholarships, internships, summer employment opportunities, and long-term career pathways in natural resources and public service.

Throughout her career, Deidre worked closely with educational institutions, community organizations, and federal agencies to expand opportunities for students and young professionals. Her efforts helped numerous students secure scholarships, internships, and employment opportunities that ultimately led to successful careers within the federal government. She has received multiple awards recognizing her commitment to leadership, workforce development, and organizational excellence, including honors for her contributions to building stronger educational and professional pathways for future generations.

Today, Deidre continues her passion for mentorship and service through her work with the HBCUI Internship Program. She remains committed to helping students discover their strengths, develop professional skills, and gain meaningful experiences that prepare them for future success. Guided by a lifelong belief in the power of education, mentorship, and service, Deidre is dedicated to creating opportunities that empower students to achieve their goals and make lasting contributions to their communities and professions.