Grace Smith joined New York University Athletics as the Assistant Director of Development in March 2025. In this role, she focuses on engaging alumni, parents, and supporters to strengthen philanthropic support for NYU Athletics, ensuring student-athletes have the resources they need to excel both academically and athletically.
A UCLA graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Geography and Environmental Studies, and a master’s in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from Arizona State University, Smith was a member of the Bruins’ rowing team. She hails from a family of Olympic and collegiate athletes, and is deeply passionate about enhancing the student-athlete experience.
Prior to joining NYU, Smith played a key role in building the fundraising program at YMCA Camp Huckins, helping to raise $750,000 in one year for capital improvements and $425,000 towards the annual fund. She also has extensive experience in nonprofit development, having worked in fundraising roles at Memorial Sloan Kettering, the New York Botanical Garden, and Johns Hopkins University.
A native of the Greater Boston, MA, area, Smith lives in Jersey City, NJ.
