Deandré Smith ’23

Deandré Smith is a passionate advocate for cannabis reform and educational equity, driven by his personal experiences and a vision for a brighter future.

As a student at the esteemed Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Deandré is a Doctor of Pharmacy candidate with a minor in food science. His journey in academia began at Polk State College, where he excelled both academically and in extracurricular activities. During his time at Polk State, Deandré distinguished himself as the Men’s Basketball Manager and served as the Brand Ambassador for the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) Program. Through LSAMP, he contributed to the mission of increasing STEM graduate degrees awarded to underrepresented minorities, reflecting his commitment to empowering marginalized communities.

Deandré’s dedication to advocacy led him to become an integral part of “The Free the plant, Free the people” Campaign, spearheaded by Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP) and the Student Marijuana Alliance for Research and Transparency (SMART). Selected as a member of the First Cohort of HBCU Ambassadors for Cannabis Policy and Awareness Campaign, Deandré is at the forefront of grassroots organizing, policy advocacy, and professional development initiatives aimed at fostering positive change on campus and in local communities.

Beyond his academic pursuits and advocacy work, Deandré is driven by a profound desire to create opportunities for minorities to thrive and build generational wealth. His long-term vision includes investing in real estate and establishing a comprehensive school from kindergarten through twelfth grade, focusing on technical certifications and exposing youth to diverse career paths. Inspired by the words of Nelson Mandela, Deandré firmly believes in the transformative power of education and is dedicated to ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background, has the chance to reach their full potential.

Deandré’s unwavering commitment to his goals, coupled with his passion for social justice and educational empowerment, positions him as a dynamic leader poised to make a lasting impact on his community and beyond.