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Christie Smith Awarded RBJ 2023 Forty Under 40

Published September 28, 2023

Rochester Business Journal has selected Nazareth University’s Christie Smith, associate vice president for undergraduate admissions, as a 2023 Forty Under 40 honoree.

Forty Under 40 recognizes Rochester's leaders who are 39 years of age or younger for their professional accomplishments, community service, and commitment to inspiring change. These individuals are not only achieving success in their careers but giving back in meaningful ways to the Rochester community. Over the years, the Rochester Business Journal has recognized more than 1,000 outstanding young professionals with this award.

“Being recognized for the Rochester Business Journal 40 Under 40 is a true honor because this recognition celebrates our career achievements and understands the broader societal impact we are making on the Rochester community,” said Smith. “I aim to inspire the next generation of Latinx women and women in general who wish to pursue career aspirations and aspire to leadership positions.” 

Smith obtained her bachelor’s degree in public relations from SUNY Oswego, and her master’s degree in higher education administration from the University of Rochester. Before becoming part of Nazareth University, she served as an admissions counselor at SUNY Oswego, assistant director of admissions at Monroe Community College, and associate director of admissions at SUNY Geneseo where she led her team to success with an increase in overall enrollment along with an increase in the BIPOC student population. During her year at Nazareth University, Smith has advanced from the new dean of first year admissions to associate vice president for undergraduate admissions.

A panel of judges consisting of prior year honorees from different professions selected this year’s Forty Under 40 winners.

This year's Forty Under 40 will be honored Nov. 28 at an awards celebration at The Strong Museum of Play. Honorees will be profiled in a magazine that will be inserted into the Dec. 1 issue of the Rochester Business Journal and will be available online at RBJ.net.

For More Information

Julie Long | Senior News & PR Officer | jlong2@naz.edu | (585) 389-2456 | (585) 781-8186 (cell)

Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for nearly 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.

Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.