GCCC Alumni Spotlight: Valarie Smith
[Garden City, KS] February 17, 2026 – Valarie Smith, a Garden City native, began her higher education journey at Garden City Community College (GCCC) in 1997, a decision influenced by both opportunity and early exposure to college life. As she explains, “Originally, my mother worked at GCCC, so discounted tuition was a meaningful benefit. I began taking college classes in high school to get a head start.”
During her time at GCCC, Smith immersed herself in campus life and explored a wide range of creative and academic interests. She participated in band, jazz band, art, and theatre, experiences that helped shape both her personal and professional development. While earning credits and preparing to transfer, she gained a perspective that would stay with her long after leaving campus.
Reflecting on that time, Smith shared, “GCCC provided both an introduction and a strong foundation for my higher education. It planted a small kernel of knowledge that I've continued to nourish ever since. I also took many art classes over the years, including a jewelry-making class in high school with my grandma, which remains a precious memory and a source of creative inspiration.”
Smith left GCCC in 1999 and continued her academic journey, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Western College University in Gunnison, Colorado, in 2002. Two decades later, she completed a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health from Fort Hays State University in 2022, further solidifying her commitment to helping others.
Today, Smith serves the Garden City community in multiple professional capacities. She is a Therapist at Intentional Talk Therapy and a Mental Health Consultant for the Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL). “I create a safe space where individuals can explore their situations and gain self-awareness, allowing them to heal and grow into their most authentic selves,” she said. “For KCSL, I work directly in Head Start classrooms to address early behavioral concerns. I collaborate with teachers and parents to deepen their understanding of children's behavior and help build treatment plans that focus on developing the skills needed to thrive.”
In addition, Smith provides art therapy and mindfulness-based presentations for organizations, contributing to all-staff conferences and creating projects designed to support mental wellness in the workplace. She is also a longtime advocate for public radio and has worked with High Plains Public Radio for over 20 years in various roles, including folk music host, regional producer, and membership manager.
Smith credits Garden City Community College as a critical factor in her long-term success, emphasizing the confidence she gained during her transition from high school to higher education. “GCCC was an essential stepping stone between high school and my continued education. It allowed me to transition into college with greater confidence,” she said.
When asked what advice she would give current and prospective students, Smith pointed to the lasting truth behind the college’s motto. “My advice to students is that the GCCC motto truly holds up: from here, you can go anywhere. GCCC provides the foundation and support needed to launch yourself into your education and, ultimately, your career path.”
She added, “We are fortunate to have GCCC in our community, with its dedicated staff and curious students who have opportunities right at their doorstep.”
Smith’s journey from GCCC student to mental health professional underscores the lasting impact of a strong educational foundation and the role Garden City Community College plays in preparing students to serve and lead within their communities.
Garden City Community College is proud to have played a part in Valarie Smith’s path. Make a difference for future Busters by starting your own Endowed Scholarship through the GCCC Endowment Association.
From HERE, you can go ANYWHERE.
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Garden City Community College exists to produce positive contributors to the economic and social well-being of society.