Meet the Centennial Dukes

Bill Smith, vice president

Bill Smith, Centennial Dukes vice president

A dog named Madison

My name is Bill Smith and I was born and raised in Moon Township, Pa., a suburb of Pittsburgh. I am the only child of John and Kim Smith, and I have a chocolate lab named Madison. I swear I didn't know I was coming to JMU when I named her.

Likes and dislikes

I attended Moon Area High School where I was an active member of the student council, chorus, and the varsity swim team. Time during my freshman year in college was mostly taken up by the JMU Men's Swim Team, where I swam distance freestyle. I have since "retired" from the sport and I hope to become more involved on campus with my new free time! During the summer, I work as a lifeguard and swim coach. I enjoy the beach, sushi, sand volleyball, singing, dancing, yelling, sleeping, abdominal workouts, traveling, and making slideshows on PowerPoint. Things I hate: running, country music, and mint (don't ask).

Communication studies major

At JMU, I'm majoring in communication studies with a concentration in public relations. I am also in pursuit of a minor in sport communication. Someday I hope to work with a professional sports organization -- hopefully the Steelers -- as a public relations consultant.

About my hometown

I live in Moon ... yes -- Moon. I've heard all the jokes, so spare me. However, if someone at JMU were to ask me where I was from, I would say "Pittsburgh." Everyone from Pittsburgh is proud to make it their home. We are THE greatest football city of all time (don't argue with that; you know it's true). Where else can you visit three different rivers at once, tour a ketchup factory and attend a baseball game at one of the most beautiful ballparks in America for only $4?

That feeling about JMU

I chose James Madison University because when I visited the school as a junior in high school, I got that "feeling." Everyone at JMU knows what the feeling is. It's just hard to explain.

A great campus

It is a great campus and there are awesome academic programs. JMU also has a small-school feel with big school opportunity. Yes, I stole that from the One Book. Also, our food is AWESOME! You can't beat D-Hall on a Thursday or a burrito at Dukes. Another underlying reason I chose JMU was because I was recruited here for swimming. This school has a very rich history in that sport, and I wanted to be a part of it. I've never encountered a harder working group of individuals in my life. They truly represent what Duke Dog pride is all about.

My first year at JMU

My first year at JMU was both awesome and awkward. The first semester is always a little strange, but by the second semester, you feel like JMU has become your home. As spring semester comes to an end, you find yourself wanting to stay at JMU all summer. Some advice to incoming freshmen: don't freak out your first week here, join whatever organization you are interested in, remember to have fun, go to a swimming party, and TAKE RISKS!

Making a name for the Centennial Dukes

My main goal for the Centennial Dukes is for us to make a name for ourselves as "the" Centennial Class of James Madison University. I want Centennial Dukes to become active with the SGA and administration in planning the Centennial Celebration in 2008. I also would like to hold events and activities for the students of JMU and our class exclusively. My personal goals include becoming active in finding a noteworthy graduation speaker for our 2008 graduation and pretty much helping out with whatever people need me to do!

Contact Bill at smithwt@jmu.edu.