By Scout Nelson
Angela J. Smith, a distinguished professor at North Dakota State University (NDSU), has been honored with a nomination for the 2025 YWCA Women of the Year Awards. This nomination is in recognition of her impactful contributions to the fields of public history and museum studies, as well as her dedicated service to the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo community.
The YWCA Women of the Year Awards, an esteemed tradition since 1973, celebrates women who have made significant contributions across various sectors such as education, healthcare, business, and community service. The awards event, sponsored by Sanford Health, is set to take place on April 28 at the Delta by Marriott in Fargo, where the community will gather to honor these inspiring leaders.
Smith expressed her gratitude for the nomination, emphasizing her passion for teaching public history. She has been instrumental in developing NDSU’s public history program, leading public history field schools, and engaging students in projects that connect historical academia with the broader community.
Her initiatives include the creation of the Fargo History Project and the launch of NDSU’s first university museum, which houses over a million artifacts, further enriching the educational landscape.
In addition to her academic and curatorial work, Smith also plays an active role in the community as the secretary for the Bonanzaville/Cass County Historical Society Board of Directors. Her efforts ensure that local stories are not only preserved but are also accessible, making history a shared and resonant experience.
The YWCA Cass Clay, host of the awards, is known for its robust support of women and children facing domestic violence and homelessness, emphasizing health, employment, and education programs. This year's awards continue to spotlight the crucial roles women play in fostering community growth and resilience.
As the awards night approaches, the anticipation builds not only to celebrate Smith's nomination but also to acknowledge the collective achievements of all nominees who strive to make a difference in their communities. This event not only honors individual achievements but also highlights the collaborative spirit that drives societal progress.
Photo Credits:north-dakota-state-university
Categories: North Dakota, Business, Education