Brianna Smith, Class of 2022
Raised in Wortham, Texas, Brianna Smith chose Navarro College for its affordability, close-to-home convenience, and strong academic support. She was drawn to the college’s exceptional professors, nearby clinical sites, and the flexibility that allowed her to pursue her education while balancing work and family life.
One of the most influential figures in Brianna’s journey was Angela Crane, her LVN instructor. Crane’s encouragement and belief in her helped shape not only her education, but her mindset as a future nurse. “She reminded me that giving up was never an option,” Brianna says. “I truly believe God placed her in my life at the perfect time.” Angela’s compassion, dedication, and mentorship continue to inspire Brianna as she grows in her nursing career.
Like many students of her time, Brianna faced the challenge of navigating college during COVID. Adjusting to online learning was difficult, especially given her preference for in-person instruction, but she credits Navarro College for working hard to create normalcy during an unpredictable time.
Her academic journey is marked by extraordinary determination. While raising two children as a young mother, she not only persevered but excelled. She graduated as:
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Valedictorian of her LVN class (2022) with a 4.0 GPA
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Recipient of the Spirit of Nursing Award in her LVN-RN class (2024)
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Valedictorian of her ADN-BSN class (2025)
Brianna previously earned her CCMA in 2019, followed by her LVN (2022), ADN (2024), and BSN in 2025. She now holds licenses and credentials as an RN and BSN, and she is proud to finally shift her focus toward her nursing career and her family after six years of hard work at Navarro.
Brianna’s professional experience already reflects her commitment to patient care. She currently works in the Emergency Room at Freestone Medical Center in Fairfield and at Parkview Hospital. She also recently completed a residency in Labor & Delivery at Hillcrest Baylor Scott & White in Waco and continues to work there on an as needed basis.
Reflecting on her journey, Brianna is most proud of achieving her academic goals while raising two children. “There were sacrifices, sleepless nights, and moments of doubt,” she says, “but I never let my circumstances define my future.”
To future students, Brianna offers this advice: “College is more than just classes and grades — it’s a journey of figuring out who you are and what you’re capable of. There will be tough days and moments of doubt, but don’t let them stop you. Believe in your potential, even when it feels like no one else sees it yet — you’re building something bigger than you know.”
Today, Brianna is excited to begin her career as a Registered Nurse and invest more time in the family that supported her along the way. Navarro College, she says, gave her not only an education, but the relationships, confidence, and experiences that shaped who she is today.
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Page Updated: October 2025
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