Matt Smith took on his current position of Director of Athletics Operations, Special Events, and Premium Seating in December of 2021. In this position, Smith plays a frontline role in securing major gifts to benefit Northwestern Athletics while also overseeing internal operations and several aspects of re-imagining Ryan Field as the team looks to execute the renovation project. He joined the athletics development team as a program assistant in January of 2013 before being elevated to Assistant Director in June of 2015, Associate Director of Leadership Giving in June of 2016, and Senior Associate Director for Major Gifts, Director of Premium Seating in August of 2021.
In his previous positions, Smith led the prospect and portfolio management efforts for the team, assisted the executive director with major and principal gift level solicitation planning, campaign reporting, front line fundraising, and secured leadership and major gifts for Northwestern Athletics. Smith has often served as the first point of contact for athletics donors, including assisting with premium ticket requests and general stewardship.
Prior to joining the Northwestern athletics development team, Smith spent two years in NU's Department of Alumni Relations and Development. A native of Elmwood Park, Ill., Smith holds a bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University. He and his wife, Jackie, who works for Northwestern's School of Professional Studies, live in Evanston with their daughter, Allie.
In his previous positions, Smith led the prospect and portfolio management efforts for the team, assisted the executive director with major and principal gift level solicitation planning, campaign reporting, front line fundraising, and secured leadership and major gifts for Northwestern Athletics. Smith has often served as the first point of contact for athletics donors, including assisting with premium ticket requests and general stewardship.
Prior to joining the Northwestern athletics development team, Smith spent two years in NU's Department of Alumni Relations and Development. A native of Elmwood Park, Ill., Smith holds a bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University. He and his wife, Jackie, who works for Northwestern's School of Professional Studies, live in Evanston with their daughter, Allie.