Councilor Crystal Smitherman Wins Prestigious Award

News Summary

Birmingham’s Councilor Crystal Smitherman has received the Centennial Under 40 Impact Award from the National League of Cities. At only 28, she is recognized for her contributions to public service, inspiring young women leaders. Smitherman’s achievements and engagements at the NLC conference underscore the growing influence of youth in governance and the importance of community development.

Birmingham’s Own Crystal Smitherman Shines Bright at National Conference

Birmingham is buzzing with excitement as Councilor Crystal Smitherman has just snagged the prestigious Centennial Under 40 Impact Award from the National League of Cities (NLC)! This award is not just any recognition; it shines a spotlight on young elected officials under the age of 40 who are making waves in public service, governance, and community development. Smitherman’s achievement puts Birmingham on the map, and it’s a moment to celebrate how this young leader is blazing trails in local government.

A Role Model for Young Women

At just 28 years old, Smitherman is not only making her mark in politics, but she is also an inspiration to many. She feels honored to represent her hometown of Birmingham on such a significant national platform. The increasing presence of young women in leadership roles is something she proudly highlighted, showing that the future is bright for aspiring female leaders in public service.

Academic Achievements Galore

Education has always been a priority for Smitherman. With a Juris Doctorate Degree from the University of Alabama School of Law—which she earned in 2019—and a degree with honors from Hampton University in 2015, she has the academic background that equips her for tackling tough issues in her community. Prior to her current role, she gathered valuable experience as a legal intern at several law firms in Birmingham, honing her skills and preparing for her legal practice.

Community Connections

Before stepping into council duties, Smitherman worked as an Outreach Education Contractor for Girls Inc., showing her commitment to community service and education. Her efforts to uplift others in her community have undoubtedly helped shape her into the leader she is today. In fact, she was appointed to the Birmingham City Council on January 2, 2019, filling the vacant District 6 seat, and she has been dedicated to serving her fellow Birmingham residents ever since.

National League of Cities Conference

Smitherman was among over 170 members of the Alabama League of Municipalities who headed to Washington, D.C., from March 9-13, 2024. The NLC’s Congressional City Conference was a significant event celebrating the organization’s 100th anniversary while discussing critical federal policy issues concerning local governments. It was a fruitful opportunity for city leaders to gather insights and share ideas about tackling challenges in their communities.

Engaging with National Leaders

At the conference, issues like the opioid crisis were front and center, with Alabama’s Attorney General talking about the state’s proactive approach to combat the epidemic and the significant settlements achieved for municipalities. The value of collaboration and resource sharing among municipal leaders stood out, especially with state-specific meetings aimed at assisting local leaders.

Furthermore, Smitherman wasn’t alone in making connections at the conference. Birmingham’s Councilman Darrell O’Quinn was re-elected to serve on NLC’s national board of directors, engaging in discussions on crucial legislation like the Bipartisan Railway Safety Act. It was also a platform where Alabama’s congressional delegation interacted directly with municipal leaders, making the connections that are vital for effective governance.

A Bright Future Ahead

The National League of Cities conference was filled with dynamic discussions and inspirational speeches, including appearances by President Joe Biden. With leaders from various cities gathering together, it served as an empowering reminder that the collective voice of local governance matters.

As Birmingham continues to grow and evolve, leaders like Crystal Smitherman are paving the way for future generations. Her recognition at the National League of Cities not only honors her accomplishments but also shines a light on the importance of young leaders in shaping the community. With true dedication and a commitment to bettering Birmingham, the city can look forward to a bright future with young leaders who are ready to tackle challenges head-on.