Rooted in Education, Flourishing in Entrepreneurship: Jeanna Smith’s Story

On National Small Business Day, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of Jeanna Smith, an alumna of Western Kentucky University’s Honors College. Jeanna’s journey from student to small business owner is a testament to the transformative power of education and the supportive environment fostered by the Honors College and its programs. 

Jeanna’s story is one of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of multiple interests. After graduating from WKU in 2015 with a major in communication disorders and completing her master’s in speech-language pathology in 2017, Jeanna initially embarked on a healthcare career. Working at Med Center Bowling Green, she found fulfillment in helping patients recover from cognitive and swallowing disorders, all while harboring a deep-rooted passion for her family’s farm. 

The seeds of Jeanna’s entrepreneurial spirit were sown during her time at WKU, where she was actively involved in various endeavors. From working at the Kelly Autism Program to serving as a park ranger at Mammoth Cave, Jeanna’s diverse experiences shaped her multifaceted approach to life and career. However, it was her immersion in the Honors College that provided her with the tools and mindset to pursue her dreams beyond the confines of a traditional career path. 

Central to Jeanna’s journey was her involvement in the HCIC, an experience that equipped her with invaluable skills and connections. Through the HCIC, Jeanna found herself surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared her passion for learning and making a difference in the world. Whether it was participating in Honors 251 or engaging in thesis projects, Jeanna thrived in an environment that encouraged creativity, independence, and critical thinking. 

One of the defining aspects of Jeanna’s time in the Honors College and WKU as a whole was the mentorship she received from faculty members like Dr. Elizabeth Gish and Dr. Cobain. Their unwavering support and encouragement empowered Jeanna to pursue her interests beyond the classroom, laying the foundation for her future endeavors. 

Reflecting on her journey, Jeanna credits the Honors College for instilling in her the confidence to pursue her passions and navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. The emphasis on independent projects and self-reflection prepared her for the challenges she would later encounter in starting her own business. 

Jeanna’s transition from healthcare to small business ownership was gradual yet transformative. As the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional healthcare practices, Jeanna found herself drawn back to the family farm, where she saw an opportunity to combine her professional expertise with her agricultural roots. 

The turning point came when the pandemic-induced meat shortages prompted inquiries from friends and neighbors about purchasing beef directly from the farm. With her family’s support, Jeanna ventured into the world of small-scale meat production, offering high-quality, locally sourced beef to the community. 

What began as selling bulk beef to a few customers quickly evolved into a thriving small business. Jeanna’s commitment to sustainability and ethical farming practices resonated with consumers seeking alternatives to mass-produced meat. By selling individual cuts at farmers’ markets and through direct delivery, Jeanna established herself as a trusted purveyor of quality meat products. 

Today, Jeanna’s small business venture has come full circle, with her farm serving as a beacon of sustainable agriculture and community engagement. She now carries products from other, mainly female-owned, small farms in the area. Her journey from scholar to small business owner exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation that defines the Honors College experience. 

As we celebrate National Small Business Day, we applaud Jeanna Smith and her remarkable achievements. Her story serves as an inspiration to current and future scholars of the Honors College, demonstrating the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to pursue their passions and dreams. 

In honoring Jeanna Smith, we also pay tribute to the transformative impact of the HCIC and the faculty members who inspire and support scholars on their journey to success. As we look to the future, may Jeanna’s story serve as a reminder that with determination, resilience, and a supportive community, anything is possible.