DENVER, CO – May 14, 2010 – Diverse: Issues in Higher Education Magazine honors students across the country for their academic achievements and their athletic ability with the Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholar Award. Jorden Smith, of Johnson & Wales University’s Denver Campus, was recognized as the Team Winner for Men’s Volleyball for his efforts both on and off the court. Smith, a junior and criminal justice major in the College of Business, finished first in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) for the most blocks in 2009. He received the JWU Coaches’ Award and Best Defensive Player Award this past season. His academic highlights include the Dean’s List and Athletic Director’s List. His extensive community work ranges from volunteering as a camp counselor at Camp Del Oro for over five years, serving as a Salvation Army holiday seasonal worker over eight years, and coaching high school girl’s volleyball for one year to encourage team work and build essential skill sets with freshmen players. Smith credits two women in his life for serving as the role models he emulates; his mother, Tamara Smith, and his grandmother, Jackie Smith, both of Antioch, California. He said, “I cannot underscore how important these women are to me. They are my mentors, my coaches, and most importantly my friends because they have always taught me to do good with my life and with my choices. “My brother and I never had anything handed to us – we had to earn it. What a great lesson in life. I have always strived to do better in my academic and professional career because of these two strong influencers in my life.” Athletic Director Jeff Culver said, “Jorden Smith is a genuine leader. The other athletes look up to him and his infectious personality. He is a true believer in giving back and has been a great advocate for service-related activities with his fellow student athletes.” MEDIA CONTACT: Lindsay Morgan Tracy, 303-256-9452 / 303-246-3789 (cell).
Founded in 1914, Johnson & Wales University (JWU)is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with approximately 17,000 graduate and undergraduate students at its four campuses in Providence, RI; North Miami, Fla.; Denver, Colo.; and Charlotte, NC. An innovative educational leader, the university offers programs in business, nutrition and health sciences, hospitality, culinary arts, technology and education. Its unique model integrates arts and sciences and industry-focused education with work experience and leadership opportunities, inspiring students to achieve professional success and lifelong personal growth. The university’s impact is global, with alumni from 152 countries pursuing careers worldwide.