Geoff Smith ’66

More than five decades after his graduation, Geoff Smith ’66 still credits Assumption for helping shape his life. “Assumption provided a solid base and foundation, instilling confidence and flexibility to continually learn new skills and become a lifelong learner,” he says. Geoff and his wife, Erika, have given back in equal measure. Among other leadership roles, he’s served as a trustee during the Centennial Campaign and chair of the Athletics Capital Campaign, leading efforts to construct the popular Brian Kelly ’83 Stadium. In 2002, the couple established the Geoff ’66 and Erika Smith Endowed Scholarship to support Connecticut students from diverse backgrounds.

Geoff tells us more about his life today and why he gives.

Tell us about your life today.

I have been retired for the past 17 years, living in Naples, Florida, and St. James, North Carolina. My life is very peaceful and focuses on family (two sons and daughters-in-law and three grandchildren living in Atlanta, Georgia, and Geneva, Switzerland), playing tennis four to five times weekly, riding my bike very frequently, and enjoying life with my partner of 51+ years and best friend Erika.

What is your fondest memory of the University as a student?
Being in a very high-spirited small Class of 1966 and serving as head dorm monitor for two successive freshman dorm floors under the direction of Father Richard Richards, Dean of Men. I also have fond memories of playing baseball and soccer at Assumption.

What was your favorite tradition at Assumption?
As a freshman at Assumption during our first weeks on campus, we had an across-the-duck-pond rope pull, which had our Class of 1966 versus the rest of the college, and our class won. It was the first time a freshman class won this rope pull, and I believe this team effort contributed a lot to our class bonding so well.

Why do you support the University with a planned gift?
We gave much thought to how we could have a lasting impact when we depart this earth and decided what could be better than supporting young students’ pursuit of learning. Assumption was the logical recipient due to the significant impact it has had in my life.

Why is it important to give back to Assumption?
When one looks back after four years at Assumption, what has the school given you? In my case, it provided me a community in which I acquired critical thinking skills, a thirst for knowledge, and it put me in leadership roles that I could build upon to succeed in life. Thus, it followed naturally to give back in whatever way we could to help Assumption fulfill its mission.

What advice would you give to a new graduate?
If you have an Assumption degree, I think you have developed the skills that give you a solid foundation for good judgment and talents that will lead to a successful life in whatever path you choose. So, move out into the world with confidence to meet any challenge that comes your way. And never forget to give back to Assumption when you can and afford other Assumption students the same opportunities you had during your stay at the University.

You too can make an impact on future students’ lives with a legacy gift. Contact Melanie Demarais at 508-767-7332 or demarais@assumption.edu to learn more.