Name: Kathleen Smith
Institution: 12th Man Foundation/Texas A&M
Title: Director of Ticket Systems
Alma Mater: Florida State University, BS; Saint Leo University, MBA
 
When and why did you decide to pursue a career in college athletics?
Much like other sport enthusiasts, sports were a safe place growing up. When I was at FSU for undergrad, I had such a positive sport experience that helped me solidify college athletics was where I needed to be. I was a Beach Volleyball manager when the sport became the 90^th NCAA sport, Soccer won its first National Championship, Football won BCS championship, we rarely lost to UF or Miami in any sport, felt like really prime years for an FSU fan (outside of the 1990s).
 
What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the field of collegiate ticketing? 
Put in the effort, ask questions, be curious.

What is the most important skill you have developed in your career and how has it helped you get to where you are today?
Patience, timing, prioritization and acceptance of myself when mistakes are made. Patience, timing and prioritization I believe go hand in hand. Just because what I am working on is important to me and is a big task on my plate, does not mean it's the most important thing to others. So, waiting for the right time to ask a question, push for an answer or let it lie is a juggling act that I think is important to master. Also accepting when mistakes are made (finding solutions) and not making it ruin your whole day or week was a very hard skill to master (always working on this). We are human and everything is always fixable, in some way.  
 
Who has been the most influential person in your career and what is the best advice they have given you?  
Lacey Williams, my current supervisor, is the most influential person in my career thus far. My biggest takeaway from her leadership is treating others with respect and that flexibility in the work schedule is needed for people to thrive. You may only have one wedding, or funeral or life altering situation that requires your time, you will always have hours/events to work. As a leader, allowing others the ability to take time when they need it is incredibly important. We are people first and foremost.
   
If you could choose one (1) amenity to add to the workplace, what would it be?  
Windows… working in the football stadium is fun until you can't readily see daylight.

What is one major sporting event that is on your bucket list?
 Florida State Football National Championship (year TBD ??). I was a student for the BCS Championship and wish I had the means to have made it to California. Will not miss the opportunity again!
 
What is your favorite binge-worthy show right now
 I'm always willing to rewatch "Bobs Burgers"- all-time favorite. I just finished watching "The Resort" on Peacock, ending was unexpected.

About NAATSO: NAATSO is the first organization of its kind to provide educational and networking opportunities; enhancement of acceptable operating standards and ethics; and establishment of the overall prestige and understanding of the profession of athletics ticketing administrators. For more information about NAATSO, please visit www.naatso.com. NAATSO is administered by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), which is in its 60th year. For more information on NACDA and the 19 professional associations that fall under its umbrella, please visit www.nacda.com.