Meet Soror Samantha Smith - A Luminous Leader focused on Service

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we are turning our spotlight toward the heart of the #LuminousLeaders in our chapter. Founded in 2013, Lambda Omega Sigma Alumnae Chapter has always been a sanctuary for brilliant women who pair their professional excellence with a deep, soulful commitment to community service. Today, we sit down with a Soror who perfectly embodies the joy, fellowship, and "Greater" spirit of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Her journey is a testament to the power of the sisterly bond and the impact one woman can have when she leads with both her mind and her heart.

It is our absolute honor to introduce the phenomenal Soror Samantha Smith.

1. Throughout your professional or community journey, which milestone or award felt like the truest reflection of your 'Greater Service'?

Honestly, the biggest milestone for me is seeing programs or service projects actually help people. Whether it’s wellness initiatives, community service efforts, or supporting shelters, knowing something we planned made a real difference means more than any award.

2. When you look at the impact you’ve made in your field, what is the one 'win' that you hope inspires the next generation of RHOyal women?

I honestly don’t always feel like I make a big impact because many of my roles allow me to stay in the background and simply do my duties. But I do hope younger Sorors see that you don’t have to stay in one lane. You can grow, change careers, try new things, and still serve your community along the way.

3. We often do the work behind the scenes; what is a recent achievement you’re proud of that the world might not know about yet?

A lot of what I do happens behind the scenes—planning programs, connecting resources, and helping things run smoothly. Within my chapter, Lambda Omega Sigma Alumnae Chapter, I’ve had the opportunity to serve as A3 4 Life Committee Chair, Chapter Parliamentarian, and Chapter Nominations Chair, and I also hosted a Parliamentarian Workshop for the chapter. Currently, I serve as the Regional H3 Health Initiatives Special Committee Chair for the Super Southwestern Region of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., helping coordinate wellness initiatives and programs. Just because I’m quiet and not loud doesn’t mean I’m not working. Influence doesn’t require volume. It’s about clarity, alignment, and refusing to shrink in spaces you’ve earned the right to occupy.

4. If there were no limits to your time or resources, what is the dream you’d manifest for your community this year?

I would love to see more consistent wellness and health resources in our communities so people have access to information and support before problems become bigger issues.

5. What is the 'blueberry on top' goal you’re chasing right now?

Right now, I’m focused on continuing to grow in leadership and building programs that actually last and continue helping people long after the event is over.

6. How do you balance professional goals with personal fulfillment?

Fitness, service, and spending time with people who pour back into me help keep everything balanced. In addition to my service work in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., I’m also part of two organizations outside of Sigma. I’m also a group fitness instructor teaching Xtreme Hip-Hop and Xtreme Burn, which allows me to encourage others to prioritize their health and wellness while doing something I truly enjoy.

7. In five years, what do you hope to have accomplished since this spotlight?

In five years, I hope to look back and see programs and initiatives still running and helping communities, and to know I helped create opportunities for others to step into leadership as well. I also hope to continue growing in my Sigma journey and serving wherever I’m needed.

8. How do you see your leadership style evolving?

I see my leadership continuing to grow in a way that creates space for others. I believe leadership isn’t just about leading from the front—it’s about supporting, mentoring, and helping others find their voice and confidence. As I continue to grow, I want to help create environments where people feel encouraged to step up, contribute their ideas, and lead in their own way.

9. What made Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. feel like home for you?

Seeing how Sigma women truly serve their communities and support one another made it clear this was where I belonged. I felt that connection starting in undergrad while attending Sam Houston State University and seeing the work of the Kappa Mu Chapter, long before I officially became a member in Fall 2014.

10. How has sisterhood supported your journey?

My Sorors constantly encourage me, check in on me, and support the work I do. Knowing you’re not doing everything alone makes a big difference. Honestly, I was surprised to even be asked to participate in this feature. I asked my line sisters, Franisha Wells-Moore and Kavica Brown Williams, if I should do it because I didn’t feel like I did anything that needed recognition. They reminded me that sometimes the work we do every day is exactly what deserves to be acknowledged.