Stories @ TCAT

Ms. Erika Smith has been chosen as a finalist for Staff of the Year and will represent the West Tennessee region at the SOAR (Statewide Outstanding Achievement Recognition) Awards, March 4- March 5 in Nashville, TN. The awards, presented each year by the Tennessee Board of Regents, recognize excellence in higher education.

Ms. Erika Smith is the Director of Nursing and Allied Health at TCAT Northwest. Ms. Smith's oversight now includes 11 health-related programs—a significant responsibility she handles with unwavering precision, empathy, and strategic vision. With over 17 years of clinical, instructional, and administrative experience, she has transformed the Nursing and Allied Health division into a model of excellence since joining TCAT Northwest. She is not only a seasoned healthcare professional but also an inspiring leader in technical education.

Her leadership has been pivotal in ensuring regulatory compliance, strengthening clinical partnerships, and elevating student outcomes. She spearheads initiatives focused on student retention, NCLEX-PN preparation, and career readiness—consistently raising the benchmarks of success. As Title VI and Title IX Coordinator, she also plays a critical role in fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable learning environment, addressing concerns with integrity and diligence.

Ms. Smith’s skill set extends well beyond clinical expertise. She demonstrates exceptional organizational abilities, critical thinking, and team leadership, fostering a culture where faculty feel supported and students feel empowered. Her work ethic is matched only by her compassion for others—qualities that ripple through every program she leads.

Dr. Youlanda Jones, President of TCAT Northwest, stated it was an honor to nominate Ms. Smith for the SOAR Staff Excellence Award. Ms. Smith’s professionalism, leadership, and commitment to student and faculty success truly embodies the spirit of this recognition.

Ms. Smith’s dedication is further evidenced by her initiative in managing healthcare-related grants and equipment, ensuring the programs remain cutting-edge and relevant in an ever-evolving field. Her contributions have had a direct impact on the institution’s mission, and her ability to bridge healthcare education with real-world application is both rare and remarkable.