Melea Smith

I was raised and educated in Northern California. I attended UC Santa Cruz and earned a BA in Community Studies with a Minor in Education. During this time, I completed a 6-month service learning field study at a domestic violence organization where I supported programming for child witnesses. I went on to earn an MA in Counseling with a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential at  Sonoma State University. 

A postgraduate road trip changed the course of my life and career. After falling in love with the desert spaces of Southern Utah, I worked for several years at the University of Utah where I enjoyed advising students involved in co-curricular leadership and volunteer opportunities at the Lowell Bennion Community Service Center. 

Since 2016, I’ve served as the Coordinator of Y.E.S. This role has been a wonderful extension of my previous experience. I’ve been honored to apply my educational background and personal connection to service learning and community engagement to such an impactful and longstanding program. 

I am excited to continue supporting Humboldt students as they engage in their own journey of discovery and community involvement. Supporting and watching student volunteers and leaders grow during an academic year is deeply satisfying and inspiring to me.

Quote

“Empathy is really important. Only when our clever brain and our human heart work together in harmony can we achieve our full potential.” - Jane Goodall

“Let your curiosity be greater than your fear.” Pema Chodron