Kylee Smith
Kylee Smith made an indelible mark in the pitcher's circle as she helped lead the University of North Georgia (UNG) softball program to a pair of NCAA Division II championship appearances in her five seasons. That included a Peach Belt Conference (PBC)-record 1,279 strikeouts.
She also earned the Schutt Sports/National Fastpitch Coaching Association National Player of the Year award in 2018 for her role in a season that saw UNG compile a program-record 62 victories.
But for Smith, sharing the credit was always an integral part of her approach.
"I was able to do what I did because I knew I had great people behind me," Smith said.
Following the cancellation of the final two months of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 with UNG at No. 3 in the nation, Smith did not hesitate to play another season for head coach Mike Davenport when the NCAA offered softball seniors another year of eligibility.
Smith and her teammates made the most of her final campaign, racking up the 2021 NCAA Southeast Regional and PBC championships before finishing among the nation's final four teams at the NCAA championship in Denver, Colorado.
She also started on her Master of Business Administration (MBA) at UNG, after earning a bachelor's degree in international affairs in August 2020. She completed her Cottrell MBA in May 2022, and Smith served on Davenport's staff as a graduate assistant for the 2021-22 season.
"He was the only one who took a shot on me and gave me a chance," Smith said. "I owe him everything in my softball career because he kept my dream going. I'm proud to be a part of the legacy Coach Davenport and previous players have built."
Throughout her journey at UNG, Smith appreciated the perspective she gained on leadership.
"There are different types of leaders," she said. "You don't always have to be the loud and outspoken leader. You need to understand the group you're leading to be a good leader."
She hopes to eventually work for the federal government in Washington, D.C. Her father's global experience inspired her studies and ignited a desire to see the world. No matter where she goes, though, her time with UNG softball will remain special.
"I wouldn't trade it for the world," Smith said. "And if I had more eligibility, I would play five more years."
Rosaria Meek
As a teacher of Spanish at the University of North Georgia (UNG), Dr. Rosaria Meek likes to blend compassion and a joy of learning into the classroom and in leadership.
Jennifer Graff
UNG Visual Arts Department Head Jennifer Graff leads by ensuring everyone has a voice.
Ben Jarrard
Ben Jarrard always dreamed of following his father and grandfather into the military. A medical condition changed his career path, and Jarrard is grateful to be able to represent his alma mater as a liaison at the state Capitol.
Luisa Diaz-Kope
As the coordinator of the Master of Public Administration program, Luisa Diaz-Kope enjoys the diversity of experiences provided by the fully online program and how that helps her students grow.