Graduate with family legacy at STCC bound for Isenberg at UMass

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – For Drew Smith, graduating from Springfield Technical Community College in May 2025 marks the culmination of both hard work and a family tradition.

A Ludlow resident, Smith will soon continue his education at the prestigious Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, following a path that’s been shaped not only by his own determination but also by the legacy of multiple generations of his family.

STCC has become a launching pad for Smith’s academic ambitions. Like many students, Smith wasn’t sure what direction to take after high school.

His family’s experiences influenced Smith’s choice to attend STCC. Both of his parents, Sara N. Smith ‘97 and James Smith ‘97, attended STCC. They met at the college and got married soon after graduating.

“STCC is a big part of our family,” Drew said, reflecting on how his parents' stories gave him the reassurance he needed.

Sara Smith, Drew’s mother, echoed this sentiment, "STCC is a great starting point. Just take one class, see how it goes... it’s a great place to begin your future."

Drew's decision was also shaped by the college’s MassTransfer program, which guarantees a smooth transfer to four-year institutions, like UMass, upon meeting certain academic criteria. “I did the research. I found out about the MassTransfer program, and that was perfect for me,” Smith said.

The MassTransfer program allows him to seamlessly transition into UMass-Isenberg, one of the top business schools in the country.

"I just set my sights on something big, like UMass-Isenberg,” Smith said. “I knew if I worked hard enough, I could make it happen."

As a business transfer major at STCC, Smith immersed himself in classes like macroeconomics and business law while also engaging in extracurricular activities. He played on the STCC soccer team for two years and served as a student ambassador, helping to promote the college and assist with events. “I couldn’t just do my work and complete my classes. I wanted to give more to the school. Being a student ambassador allowed me to help organize events, meet new people and really get involved,” Smith said.

STCC is a big part of our family. Drew Smith, STCC student

Drew’s academic focus and extracurricular involvement paid off. He was not only a standout student but also became a leader on the soccer team, eventually earning the role of captain. His work ethic and dedication earned him honors status, something he takes great pride in.

Sara Smith, who graduated from STCC in 1997 with a degree in marketing, speaks with pride about her son’s journey. "I am going to be so proud when I see him up there with his cap and gown. To say, ‘You did it,’ I’m just going to be so proud," said Smith, who serves on the Board of Directors for the STCC Foundation. STCC will hold a Commencement ceremony on May 29, 6:30 p.m., at the MassMutual Center to honor the Class of 2025 graduates.

Sara Smith’s own experience at STCC set the stage for her successful career. She now serves as general manager of Tower Square in Springfield. "STCC influenced me personally. I met my husband there in my first semester, and we’ve been together for over 30 years," Smith said.

The Smith family’s connection to STCC runs deep. Drew’s mother, who initially wasn’t sure if college was the right path for her, found her direction through her studies in marketing at STCC. She later went on to earn a degree from Western New England University.

“It was a decision my mother helped me make,” Sara Smith said. “I didn’t know where I wanted to go, but STCC felt like a good starting point. It gave me the foundation I needed.”

Sara’s daughter and Drew’s younger sister, Avery, is also currently attending STCC, continuing the family tradition of choosing the college as a launching pad for her future. Sara’s father and brother also graduated from STCC.

What makes STCC so special for Drew Smith isn’t just the affordability. It’s the community, the support, and the resources that have helped him grow both academically and personally.

"The advisors at STCC really helped guide me. I could rely on them when I needed direction, and they’ve been a huge part of my success," Smith said.

"Students like Drew exemplify what we hope for in our graduates,” said Darcey Kemp, Vice President of Student Affairs at STCC. “He’s demonstrated exceptional dedication to both his academics and his extracurricular activities, which speaks volumes about his work ethic and commitment. Drew’s involvement in student activities and athletics, combined with his academic focus, shows how STCC provides students with a well-rounded experience that prepares them for success at top-tier institutions like UMass.”

Looking ahead, Drew is ready to take on the challenges that come with attending UMass-Isenberg. His plans are clear: he wants to earn his degree, build a strong career and work his way up the business ranks. "I’m just focused on meeting great people, working hard and building a career in business," he said.

For future students, Drew’s advice is simple: “Definitely take advantage of it. Free college is huge. Even if you don’t continue your studies, an associate degree opens up so many opportunities.”

Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

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