Philadelphia native, and distinguished basketball scholar-athlete. She matriculated from Clarion University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and completed her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in May 2023. At Clarion, she was a member of the Women’s Basketball Team and actively participated in various organizations, including the Brothers and Sisters in Christ Club, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Psi Chi (The International Honor Society in Psychology), and the President’s Leadership Academy. In the 2022-23 academic year, she also served as the Presidential Leadership Intern for PennWest Clarion. Along with graduating from Clarion, Smith is also a proud graduate and active alumna of the GESU School, Class of 2013, and Merion Mercy Academy, Class of 2017. After completing her Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, she decided to pursue her dream of playing professional basketball in Portugal.
With God at the center of her life, along with the support of her family and community, hard work, and diligence, Jada has been shaped into the person she is today. Her educational experiences not only prepared her for high school but also instilled in her a deep sense of purpose. Smith is devoted to giving back to her community, focusing her philanthropy on advocacy, mentorship, and scholarships, primarily for female athletes and African-American youth. While athletics is close to her heart, Jada is also open to supporting other demographics and collaborating with any team, nonprofit, or project that benefits the community.
Jada’s Alma Mater, The GESU School left a significant mark on her life. As an honors athlete playing basketball and running track during her time at GESU, Jada noticed there were no spaces dedicated to honoring female athletes. She didn’t wait for someone else to fill this gap; instead, she took it upon herself to recognize young women who excel both academically and athletically. From this vision, The Jada J. Smith Distinguished Student-Athlete Award and the nonprofit organization S.W.A.G. were born.
Jada believes that opportunities should be more accessible and equitable because young people face too many obstacles that hinder their access to education, sports, and other activities. The programs, support, and opportunities that S.W.A.G. offers are crucial because they reinforce character traits like self-esteem, self-worth, and a strong work ethic—traits that lead to success.
