Christine Dennis-Smith

Christine Dennis-Smith is well known on Virginia Tech’s campus for the enormous amount of support she provides for others. She has worked for the Women’s Center at Virginia Tech for nearly 20 years, and since 2008 has been its Co-Director of Services, working with and advocating for victims and survivors of gender-based violence, and supporting and empowering women who are caregivers. In 2003 she was recipient of the Virginia Sexual Assault Task Force Award in recognition of outstanding contributions in campus sexual assault.

Her nominator noted that Christine “speaks her mind on matters that are difficult. She is always there to lift others up. She serves as an amazing resource for the staff at the Women’s Center. She truly cares about the things that she works for. She is confident in the work she does but is also respectful. Christine never ceases to impress me. Christine has empowered me and many other individuals at Virginia Tech to take up for what they believe in and to ask for help when needed. Someday, I hope to be half the woman that Christine is.”

Christine said that, to her, courageous leadership “means getting up and doing the work even when it is hard and even when not everyone is in agreement. It means supporting and challenging those around you who are also trying to do the work.”

She cites a quote given to her by a student: “You have been assigned to this mountain to show others it can be moved.”

Christine, your support and advocacy have meant so much to Virginia Tech. I am pleased to present Christine Dennis Smith with the faculty-staff Aspire! Award for COURAGEOUS LEADERSHIP.