Office of Academic Affairs

Dr. Crystal Martinez-Smith

Raised on a ranch in Rociada, New Mexico, Dr. Crystal Martinez-Smith couldn’t have imagined where a degree in Tourism & Travel Administration would lead, but as Assistant Vice President for Global & Community Connections at Tarleton State University, her NMHU education has provided the foundation for academic success leading to the doctorate. She also developed strengths as a visionary leader in higher education that led to advancements in her profession. As Dr. Sherri Benn, Vice President for Global, Community, and First-Gen Initiatives at Tarleton State described when announcing Martinez-Smith’s new role, “During her time at Tarleton State University, Dr. Martinez-Smith has distinguished herself as an exceptional leader whose work consistently advanced student success, global engagement, and community partnership. With nearly two decades of progressive higher education leadership experience, Crystal brings a strategic and student-centered approach to every role she has held. As Assistant Vice President, she provides oversight for global initiatives, community engagement, student leadership development, international student services, study abroad, and military-connected student support, helping to strengthen pathways for students to thrive.”

How did NMHU contribute to these achievements? “My experience at NMHU reinforced the importance of adaptability and building strong relationships, both critical skills in today’s rapidly evolving professional environment,” Dr. Martinez-Smith noted. “Developing the ability to think strategically and connect with a wide range of audiences equipped me to tackle challenges with creativity, insight, and a thoughtful, strategic mindset. The smaller class sizes allowed for meaningful interaction with professors, which strengthened my confidence and professional growth.” A powerful influence on her success was the late Henry O. Sanchez, a professor known for promoting a positive and inspiring experience in his NMHU classrooms. Lessons learned from his mentorship included the development of critical thinking and a hard work ethos, always emphasizing the importance of character alongside skill.  His influence, as well as the sense of community on campus, reinforced her sense of being valued as an individual while studying in and around the mountains and meadows of Las Vegas.

In her current role at Tarleton State, Dr. Martinez-Smith has taken lessons learned from Dr. Sanchez to her work with students. Goals of her work include making sure that her students feel supported, empowered, and prepared for life beyond graduation. Preparing students for their future as confident and resilient adults with a clear sense of direction is key to their future success, which “means (that) fostering strong support systems, encouraging engagement in internships and experiential learning, and helping students connect their education to real-world career pathways” are cornerstones of the programs she has developed and led. The sense of one’s willingness to put in the effort even when no one is watching, a lesson Dr. Martinez-Smith learned from her parents, Carlos and Lorraine Martinez, and continues to inspire her work at Tarleton State. Being raised on a ranch and being immersed in New Mexican culture has defined her work in many ways, especially as she honors identity and embraces diversity throughout her work and life, driven by a sense of integrity as a role model for colleagues, students, and Tarleton State community members.

Community and commitment have been key foundations of Dr. Martinez-Smith’s work throughout her career. As noted by Dr. Benn, “Crystal is a collaborative and inspiring leader who builds strong teams and cultivates trust across the campus community. Her commitment to access, opportunity, and student success always leaves a lasting impression on the students and colleagues she serves.”

With many happy and impactful memories of her Highlands experience to share, the sense of community was of specific importance, and was defined by her work with peers, participation in campus activities and events, and the support Dr. Martinez-Smith received from faculty, staff, and her fellow students. Without this sense of belonging and shared purpose, “the discipline, the values, and the belief that anything is possible through dedication” would not have allowed Dr. Crystal Martinez-Smith to grow academically and professionally, and influenced the way she leads and serves others today. As her life and career demonstrates, Highlands graduates start here and go far, impacting many as they navigate the world beyond Las Vegas.

Start Here, Go Far
Dr. Crystal Martinez-Smith
B.A., Tourism & Travel Administration – New Mexico Highlands University.
M.S., Management & Leadership – Tarleton State University
Ed.D., Higher Education Leadership – Tarleton State University.

New Mexico Highlands University is a public comprehensive university serving our local and global communities. Our mission is to provide opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to attain an exceptional education by fostering creativity, critical thinking and research in the liberal arts, sciences, and professions within a diverse community. For more information about our mission, click here.