Lisa Smith was the Justice and Education Coordinator for the Office of Violence Prevention and Victim Assistance (VPVA) at Rutgers New Brunswick. She was known as Lisa “The Legend” among the VPVA Team. Before her nearly 24 years at Rutgers, Lisa was the Director of Outreach Services for the YWCA of Eastern Union County. Lisa also sat on various committees and was a sought-after trainer on sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Recently, Lisa transitioned from working directly with survivors to working with those who cause harm. She saw this as a necessary part of violence prevention work and was a strong advocate of restorative justice. Lisa also co-managed the Crisis Response Advocate program, which provides 24/7 support to survivors of crime and trauma to the Rutgers New Brunswick community. In addition, Lisa was an instructor at Rutgers School of Social Work and Division of Continuing Studies, where she helped shape the careers of many students. She was a former member of the Board of Trustees for the NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence and was certified as a Domestic Violence Specialist in the State of New Jersey.
Beyond all her professional experience, Lisa was a wonderful colleague, a fierce advocate, and a valued friend. She lived in the service of others and fought injustice wherever she encountered it. Lisa will be greatly missed by all, but her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.
Healing The Wounded Heart is up for all to see at the Douglass Library with the addition of our newest heart in honor of Lisa! Go visit the display throughout the month of February as we celebrate survivorship & the life of a fearless advocate!
We miss you Lisa and you are forever in our hearts! <3 <3 <3
