Q&A with Tom Smith, Supervisor of Specialized Recreation Services

1. How long have you been employed at VFES? 26 years
2. What positions have you held over the course of your career? Behavior Specialist, Teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal/Program Supervisor and Assistant Director of Education
3. How does your previous role as the Assistant Director of Education help you in your current role? All of my previous positions assist in this role. My experience as Behavior Specialist and Teacher help because I worked directly with students and alongside staff. Co-Writing Grants and Program Development (Horticulture, Building Trades, DLC, Fitness trail and room) were directly related to my Principal and Assistant Director of Education roles.
4. Where did you grow up? Akron, New York (Small town 45 minutes from Buffalo)
5. What’s something surprising that not many people know about you? I love to cook and almost went to culinary school. 
6. When did you first know that you wanted to pursue a career in this field? I knew when I landed my first job out of college as a Classroom Assistant in an alternative school in Cheektowaga, New York.
7. What are you looking forward to in your current role? I’m looking forward to developing a variety of opportunities for adults with special needs so they learn and develop skills through participating in recreational classes and activities year-round.
8. What is something that you are proud of about yourself? I am proud that I hold various graduate degrees and certifications, continue to coach and referee wresting, have a small home improvement business and I am willing to share my experience and provide service to whomever would like to receive it.
9. Who or what inspires you professionally? I am inspired when I see an opportunity to provide service to others and find a way to provide it.
10. If space and resources weren’t a factor, how would you enhance the Specialized Recreation Services program? I would create a community recreation center designed to meet the needs and interests of individuals with disabilities.
11. What do you enjoy most about your new role so far? I enjoy working directly with students and adults with special needs in a fun and therapeutic environment.
12. What are some activities you're planning for adult participants? A few of our upcoming events are:

Lawn and Yard Games – October 15-November 19 (Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm)

Hayride – October 16, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

Halloween Dance – October 25, 6:30-8:30 pm