Empowering Possibility: Lily Smith’s Journey from the University of Oregon to TRIO Advocacy
"My hope is that by connecting students with college and career opportunities, and introducing them to professionals who share similar backgrounds, they’ll feel seen, represented, and inspired." – Lily Smith
Lily Smith (Mentzer), a 2020 graduate of the University of Oregon College of Education, exemplifies the transformative power of equity-driven education. With a bachelor’s degree in Educational Foundations, Smith now serves as the Workforce Readiness Manager for the Oregon TRIO Association, where she supports students from historically marginalized backgrounds in accessing career and college opportunities.
Smith credits her undergraduate experience at the University of Oregon (UO) with preparing her for this role. “One way my UO experience prepared me for my career with Oregon TRIO is by giving me a strong foundation in understanding how educational systems impact students from diverse backgrounds,” she stated. Her coursework emphasized equity in education and culturally responsive support, which she now applies in her work with TRIO students across Oregon.
Among the most impactful elements of her time at UO was her enrollment in the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Program. As a first-generation college student, Smith found TRIO to be a vital support system that helped her successfully navigate the challenges of higher education. “They were a big reason I was able to graduate and successfully navigate college,” she shared. “They’re also the reason why I work for TRIO today.”
Smith also highlighted the influence of specific faculty members in shaping her academic journey. “Alison Schmitke, PhD, was a tremendous support for me during my last two years in the EDF program,” Smith recalled. “She offered consistent advice and encouragement that helped me stay focused and confident in my goals.”
Smith’s work is grounded in the belief that education should be inclusive and empowering. By advocating for students and facilitating access to meaningful opportunities, she contributes to a broader effort to dismantle barriers and promote equity in postsecondary education and workforce development.
Reflecting on her time at UO, Smith offers practical advice to current students: “Take advantage of every free, college-sponsored activity you can. Those amazing opportunities, whether it’s a guest lecture, cultural event, or workshop, are often only available to you while you’re a student. They can open your eyes to new ideas, people, and experiences that you might never encounter otherwise.”
Looking ahead, Smith remains focused on expanding her impact. “One day, I hope to be in a leadership role for an education non-profit,” she said. “I’ve been focusing on building my skills toward that goal.” Her journey from student to advocate illustrates the impact of the Educational Foundations program at the University of Oregon.