Suzette Smith
Director
Office of Student Life, Bryan Williams, M.D. Student Center

First UTSW job: Coordinator of campus activities.

Best part about my job: Collaborating with students and colleagues to bring their ideas to life, knowing that the work we do has a lasting impact on how they experience campus beyond the classroom, lab, or hospital.

How co-workers describe me: A steady, supportive leader who values collaboration, encourages a student’s voice, and works behind the scenes to turn big ideas into meaningful outcomes.

Best UTSW memory: It was filming one of the senior class films in an old section of campus that used to be the morgue. In the back was a room resembling a jail cell that looked straight out of a low-budget horror movie. I was asked if I wanted to film inside that room, and my thought was, no way! We did film the scene, however, as I strategically remained outside of those bars, supervising from a safe distance.

My proudest UTSW accomplishment: Advocating for students to be involved in the planning and design of the Bryan Williams, M.D. Student Center. This collaborative approach has had a lasting impact, shaping a vibrant hub for connection, engagement, and student-led initiatives.

I’m really good at: Creating structure and momentum around complex projects, leading with empathy, and ensuring that decisions are intentional and student‑centered. I am also good at building relationships, anticipating needs, and staying calm and thoughtful when projects are challenging or unexpected.

Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with people I care about and traveling to historical places.

Surprising fact: I have a master’s degree in sports administration from Indiana University – even though I never played a sport.

Final note: Being a part of the UT Southwestern community is incredibly rewarding. I’ve built amazing friendships and participated in many meaningful collaborations to benefit our students and community.