After 16 years in various positions at Thomas College, staff member Kerry Smart is embarking on a new journey with the Travis Mills Foundation.
Kerry has been a beacon of joy and positivity in her roles throughout the years – cross country coach, in the Advancement Office, and most recently, in the Professional & Career Development office.
When we speak of what makes the Thomas community so special, we are talking about individuals like Kerry—someone who has touched the lives of hundreds of students and staff in profound ways.
We asked Thomas community members about the impact Kerry on them. This is what they had to say:
“‘Let’s go have some fun!’ This battle cry captures the essence of Kerry Smart. She approaches everything with boundless energy, enthusiasm, kindness, and a sharp sense of humor. Whether leading her cross-country teams to success, building relationships in advancement, or guiding students as they navigated life after Thomas College, Kerry did it all with passion, positivity, and a heart full of laughter. That’s who Kerry is. That’s what she does. Kerry, as you move into your next chapter, we say: ‘Let’s go have some fun!’” – Deb Biche-Labbe, Associate Director of Athletics
“Coach Kerry Smart had a profound influence on my college journey, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have crossed paths with her. Through her dedication, kindness, and belief in every person’s potential, she changed lives and helped foster a community where everyone could thrive. From the moment I arrived on campus, I knew Coach Smart would play an important role in my life—and I’m so lucky to say that she still does, years after I’ve graduated. She opened her home to us, offering more than just a place to practice—she provided a safe haven where we could turn to her for support. Kerry quickly became a second home for me, and I know my parents found comfort in knowing she was there for me. Her fierce attitude gave me the strength to advocate for myself and stand up for what I believed in. Even when Kerry was facing her own challenges, her support never wavered. She knew when something was wrong, often before I did, and her unwavering care shaped me into the woman I am today. A mentor, a leader, and an inspiration, Coach Smart leaves behind a legacy that will continue to impact Thomas College for years to come.” – Alyssa Maggi ’17, M.B.A. ’18
“Kerry has always been the person you go to with a crazy fun idea especially if you are not sure if it’s going to work. My favorite example of this is when she jumped in without hesitation to make the dirty dog mud run a reality. If it wasn’t for Kerry The mud run would never have existed and all I had to do is say I have an idea but I can’t do it without you.” –Jim Delorie, Assistant VP of Student Engagement and Residential Life
“Kerry has been a vital part of Thomas College for over 15 years, leaving a lasting impact on students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Her dedication, humor, kindness, and professionalism have defined her time here, whether coaching cross country, advancing athletic fundraising, or managing programs like the Central Maine Top Gun and Thomas Cup. She has been a steadfast supporter and guiding presence for our international students, exemplifying the warmth and spirit that define Thomas. She will be deeply missed as a colleague, friend, and champion of our community.” – Mikaela Ziobro, Senior Director of Grad and Professional Studies
“Kerry has been the face of Thomas College since she stepped onto campus. She has inspired countless students and staff with her dedication, kindness, enthusiasm, passion, and work ethic. Kerry is the definition of a Thomas Terrier. Her legacy of positive impact will be deeply cherished and missed.” – Andrea Thebarge, Associate Director of Athletics
“Kerry Smart is like a cross between the Energizer Bunny and the late Betty White. She has boundless energy like no other, and like Betty displayed throughout her life, Kerry has a terrific sense of humor, lives life to the fullest, and is one of those individuals that lights up a room and is clearly someone that people love to hang with. I can’t imagine anyone whose life hasn’t been enriched after crossing paths with Kerry.” -Bob Moore ’79, Thomas College Trustee
“Kerry has had such a positive influence on my career at Thomas. Her dedication, kindness, and positive attitude have left an unforgettable mark on me and the Thomas community. As she moves onto her new role, I know that the positive influence shared will continue to inspire and guide us. Thank you for being such an incredible colleague and friend!” – Ali Kriegel ’11, M.B.A. ’12, Regional Admissions Counselor
“Kerry worked at Thomas College during my time there at school. She consistently made me and so many others feel seen and heard during such a transformative 4 years. Once I graduated, she then continued to help me feel welcomed and supported by keeping me connected to the school that I loved and called home for 4 years; and I will forever be grateful for that. As the years passed, Kerry consistently checked in on me to see how my life was changing and growing. When I married my wife, she instantly welcomed her with open arms. Then, as our family grew from two to three, she showed her love and support that she has always shown me and other Thomas alum to my son, welcoming him to the Thomas family as well. I will miss our annual cocktails after the Terrier Tee Off, but I know we will connect at a Kenny Chesney concert or Boston sporting event soon. I truly wish Kerry nothing but the best as she embarks on her newest adventure. Once a terrier always a terrier.” – Andrew Folan ’11
“Kerry is the type of colleague that becomes a fast friend. Her caring nature, thirst for adventure, and ability to put everyone at ease has made her one of a kind! Her ability to volunteer for any task no matter how big or small has helped create teams and community wherever she is. She will be missed here at Thomas by students, colleagues, and alumni alike!” -Luke Shorty, Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives
“Coach Smart! Congratulations on your new job! I’m so proud of you! Thank you so much for what you have done during your time at Thomas College! Thank you for being an amazing person and a fantastic coach! I will never forgot the time when we went to a cross country meet and you didn’t tell me we were going to have to run up a mountain at the 3 mile marker of the race! I still need to race you in the mile! Love you a lot Coach!” -Jordan Gibson ’17
We will miss you dearly, Kerry Smart, but we know your next chapter will be just as extraordinary as the one you’ve written here. Thank you for everything.