Alexandria “Lexi” Smith grew up with her mother’s words again and again: “I can only promise you one thing in life: education.” For Lexi, that promise became a guiding force. As a first-generation college student from Bedford, New York, she has used education as both a tool and a mission. Shaping her time at Wake Forest, Lexi has turned that promise into purpose, using her education to create opportunity not only for herself but for others.
Lexi is a senior pursuing a bachelor of arts in politics and international affairs and sociology, with a minor in French. As the University’s Student Trustee, she works to strengthen collaboration between students and administration, helping build a more cohesive and inclusive campus environment – one that reflects the Pro Humanitate community values she loves.
A Heritage Scholar, Lexi has been recognized with the Cornerstone Award, the Westchester Alliance Black Scholar Educators Scholarship, and the Torrell N. Nugget Opportunity Scholarship through the Boys and Girls Club of Northern Westchester. On campus, she serves as a President’s Aide, co-chair of the Student Budget Advisory Committee, and member of the Student Activity Fee. At the Women’s Center, Lexi channels her passion for gender equity and empowerment, ensuring that students have spaces to share their stories and create meaningful change.
Beyond campus, she gained professional experience through a Congressional internship with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, working for Congressman Gregory Meeks (NY-05) and with the Westchester District Attorney’s Office. Looking ahead, Lexi plans to attend law school to pursue a career in international law, focusing on gender and policy. Her goal is to continue creating the kind of inclusive, collaborative communities she’s helped foster at Wake Forest – turning her mother’s promise into a lifelong mission.