Samariya Smith
Instructor
Dept. of Geography, Sustainability, Community and Urban Studies (GSCU)
Samariya Smith, MPA
Executive Director | Youth Development | Public-Sector Partnerships
Samariya Smith is a strategic, equity-centered leader with over a decade of experience driving youth development and community resilience initiatives across Connecticut. Currently serving as the Community Recreation Program Manager for the City of Hartford’s Department of Sports & Recreation, Samariya directs citywide operations serving over 1,000 residents annually. In this role, she spearheads critical partnerships between schools, health agencies, and nonprofits to expand inclusive programming for Hartford’s families.
Professional Background
Samariya’s career is defined by her commitment to high-impact public service and trauma-informed advocacy:
- Statewide Leadership: As a former Program Manager for The Governor’s Prevention Partnership, she led a mentoring strategy impacting over 3,000 youth across the state.
- Civic Narrative: She served as Project Director for the Connecticut Historical Society’s Community History Initiative, a $1 million project designed to amplify youth voices through digital storytelling and civic engagement.
- Crisis Intervention: Her background includes significant work in public safety and education, having served as a Victim Services Coordinator for the Hartford Police Department’s Major Crimes Division and a Senior Case Manager for Hartford Communities That Care.
Community Advocacy & Recognition
Deeply rooted in the Hartford community, Samariya has been affectionately coined one of “Hartford’s Community Mamas” for her tireless dedication to young people. Her leadership extends to several influential boards and organizations:
- Board Leadership: Member, Women’s League Child Development Center.
- Empowerment: Co-founder of Just Be BIG (Beautiful Intelligent Gorgeous), an organization dedicated to changing the narrative surrounding plus-size women.
- Awards: Honoree of June Archer’s 100 Women of Color award (2021).
- Service: Active member and former Social Justice Chair of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc..
Education
Samariya holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from San José State University. She is also a graduate of the Leadership Greater Hartford Quest Program.
