Leah Smith
Decherd
Summary
Dynamic professional leader committed to enhancing community engagement and promoting individual development. Expertise in fostering collaboration among diverse teams, adeptly navigating changing circumstances to ensure seamless operations. Proven track record in crafting innovative strategies that drive goal achievement, with strong skills in conflict resolution, crisis management, and effective communication. Passionate about creating environments that inspire growth and success for individuals and organizations.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Theme & Greek Housing Residential Assistant
Office of Residential Life
01.2025 - Current
- Define responsibilities, collaboration procedures, support systems in a new role.
- Advised Greek and Theme Communities; conducted mediation meetings during conflict, maintained safe living communities, and encouraged campus leadership and collaboration.
- Collaborated with the Dean of Students Office and Office of Residential Life to bridge relationships between student leaders and campus administrators.
Human Resources Assistant
Office of Human Resources
01.2023 - Current
- Lead hiring and onboarding for 800+ student employees, ensuring accurate documentation and compliance.
- Assist with staff onboarding: Form I9s, W-4s, Direct Deposits, and background and drug screenings.
- Direct high volume of communication and collaborate with campus departments to assist with hiring.
Campus Tour Guide
Office of Admissions
01.2023 - Current
- Lead campus tours for prospective students and families, provide information, and facilitate recruitment.
Chapter President
Kappa Delta Sorority – Eta Epsilon Chapter
01.2024 - 01.2025
- Led a chapter of 80+ members, overseeing operations, officer leadership, sisterhood engagement, and policy compliance.
- Strengthened communication and accountability, improved chapter processes, and collaborated with KD National Headquarters and New Chapter Advisory Board.
- Represented the Eta Epsilon Chapter at the National Conference; applied relevant training to elevate programming and member experience.
- Managed executive turnover by facilitating mid-term elections after a sudden VP E&P resignation.
- Transformed the ISC Representative role into a Philanthropy Chair to address the lack of service involvement.
Lead Residential Assistant
Office of Residential Life
01.2024 - 01.2025
- Led a team of 11 Residential Assistants across 5 dormitories; coordinated operations, conflict resolution, training, and incorporated team-building efforts.
- Served a dorm of 90 residents; collaborated with RA team to plan events and facilitate community needs.
Vice President - Finance
Kappa Delta Sorority – Eta Epsilon Chapter
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Rebuilt the chapter's financial system after identifying major inaccuracies and undocumented financial aid.
- Partnered with the Chapter Advisory Board to establish compliant, transparent financial aid procedures.
- Developed and managed a $70,000 annual budget, strengthening long-term savings and improving financial health.
- Implemented accurate billing and communication processes to increase member accountability.
Residential Assistant
Office of Residential Life
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Supported a dorm of 60 residents: planned engagement activities and resolved residential concerns.
Director of Finance & Director of Social Media/Marketing
Kappa Delta Sorority – Eta Epsilon Chapter
01.2023 - 01.2023
- Administered financial operations and supervised chapter social media to enhance recruitment and engagement.
Assistant Director - Extended School Program
Sewanee Elementary School
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Supervised elementary students, ensured safety, homework support, and communication with families.
- Maintained accurate procedures and records, ensuring all guidelines were followed and implemented.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Economics
The University of the South
Sewanee, TN05.2026
Skills
- Conflict mediation
- Academic support
- Problem-solving
- Relationship and team building
- Leadership and people development
- Effective communication
- Peer mentoring
- Public speaking
Timeline
Theme & Greek Housing Residential Assistant
Office of Residential Life
01.2025 - Current
Chapter President
Kappa Delta Sorority – Eta Epsilon Chapter
01.2024 - 01.2025
Lead Residential Assistant
Office of Residential Life
01.2024 - 01.2025
Human Resources Assistant
Office of Human Resources
01.2023 - Current
Campus Tour Guide
Office of Admissions
01.2023 - Current
Vice President - Finance
Kappa Delta Sorority – Eta Epsilon Chapter
01.2023 - 01.2024
Residential Assistant
Office of Residential Life
01.2023 - 01.2024
Director of Finance & Director of Social Media/Marketing
Kappa Delta Sorority – Eta Epsilon Chapter
01.2023 - 01.2023
Assistant Director - Extended School Program
Sewanee Elementary School
01.2022 - 01.2023
Bachelor of Arts - Economics
The University of the South