Get to Know: Bea Smith

Bea Smith moved to Aberdeen six years ago, but growing up in Ashley, ND, the Hub City has been her go-to place for shopping, healthcare, and activities—her home away from home.

Bea has experienced the Aberdeen community as both a visitor and a resident, giving her a unique perspective as she started her first position in Aberdeen at NSU’s Admissions office. She then worked as the Director of Membership and Engagement with the Aberdeen Chamber.

A little over a year ago, Bea shifted roles and became the Sanford Health Aberdeen’s Community Liaison where she works to better connect Sanford Health to the Aberdeen area community. The community leader also participates in a number of volunteer programs and organizations including Hub City Cups, Safe Harbor Foundation Board Member, and Meals on Wheels.

“Behind every Aberdeen business and Aberdeen organization is a cool story. Once a person learns of the story, my hope is they will support the business, be involved in the community organization, and appreciate the amazing community we all get to call home,” Bea said.

Bea is passionate about creating a community that she wants to live in, welcoming newcomers, and helping them feel at home in Aberdeen. Learn more about one of Aberdeen’s biggest supporters in this Q and A with Bea.

Q: Why is community involvement important to you?

A: From a young age, it was instilled in me, being involved in things to ensure their continuation. If you enjoy the events and activities community organizations put on, then be involved in them! Our community service organizations and nonprofits bring uniqueness to our community that sets it apart from others. It is up to us as residents to create the fun, vibrant, and supportive community we all want to live in.

Q: What do you love about the Aberdeen community?

A: I love that Aberdeen is a really big “small town.” When walking down Main Street or going to the grocery store, chances are you will run into someone you know. Everyone is willing to support and help out one another. There are countless examples of this throughout our community.

Q: How do you spend your free time?

A: I enjoy spending time with my husband, Aaron, two-year-old daughter, Stella (soon to be two children as we are expecting our second child this spring), and Shih Tzu, Ruby. I enjoy volunteering and attending various community events and activities in the community. Wednesday mornings you’ll find me at the Hub City Cup Show, enjoying coffee and networking, and on the weekends, cheering on our Aberdeen Wings Hockey team!

Q: If you could choose only one word to describe yourself, what would it be?

A: Connector. I love connecting people—especially if someone has a great idea. Connecting them to someone who can help bring life to that idea excites me. Aberdeen has an abundance of people doing incredible things, but often we don’t realize the power of our networks and simply getting connected.

Q: What are you working on now that excites you?

A: There are so many things I’m working on that excite me. Within Sanford Health, we are working on programs that will be launching locally in the upcoming years. //