Fred Smith (October 2022)

Fred Smith (He/Him/His), Manager of Academic Support Services, CDSSHeadshot of a smiling person with short dark hair and a beard in front of Sather Gate with trees in the background.

What does your program, unit, or division do on campus?

My unit manages all of the academic support logistics of CDSS (Computing, Data Science, and Society). Additionally, my unit manages several student-centered programs that promote diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and justice.

Describe your job in five words:

Intricate, challenging, innovative, leadership, rewarding

Why Berkeley?

Cal has held a pretty consistent place in my life since my sophomore year of high school as I took SAT prep courses on campus. Now, as a staff member, I am devoted to making positive impacts on the lives of our students, both young and seasoned!

Over your career, what are some of the things that have helped you move to the next level and to new opportunities?

Networking and always being open to learning has helped me move to the next level and has exposed me to new opportunities. I also believe that being integral, kind and knowledgeable has helped me excel in these areas.

What is the best advice a mentor has given you in work, life, or beyond?

Be yourself and always keep GOD first!

What motivates you to do your best work?

Helping others motivates me to do my best at work and outside of work. I always strive to be a support system for students and staff and set them up for success and never failure while pushing them to their full potential. 

What’s the weirdest job you’ve ever had?

The weirdest job I ever had was working part-time for an environmental organization in San Francisco. The job involved me blindly calling individuals in the organization's directory, asking them to contribute money to help fund efforts to fight and eliminate Hexavalent Chromium 6. I was only there for a week. 

What is an interesting or little-known fact about you?

I love to travel, and I love adventure. A few years ago, I went parasailing over the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town, South Africa. 

What are you most looking forward to this year?

Vacation.