Tuwanya Smith - Rockdale County Commissioner Elect

By Terry L. Watson

Provided by Out The Lab Photography

Tuwanya Smith

Rockdale County Commissioner Elect

Tuwanya Smith of Conyers, GA, is a dedicated wife to her husband, Tony. She is also a dedicated mother, grandmother, local business owner, and a devoted member of the Rockdale Community. With a background in philanthropy and a deep passion for giving back, Tuwanya’s commitment to helping others knows no bounds. She’s an active member of the Rockdale County Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club of Rockdale, a Certified Youth Mental Health First Aider, and a mentor in the Rockdale County School System. Her subtle yet impactful approach leaves a lasting mark on the world and makes it a better place for all.

Born and raised in Decatur, GA, Tuwanya describes herself as an original Georgia Peach! The youngest of four children and a proud product of Dekalb County School System, she began working at McDonald’s at the early age of fifteen and has been working ever since. She attended Lakeside High School, Fort Valley State University, Georgia State University, and Ashford University (University of Arizona Global Campus). Tuwanya has a General Studies degree and a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Management.

As a small business owner, I know the challenges of keeping the doors open and employee retention. All of our businesses survived Covid-19 and are still viable.

Tuwanya says that as a child, she was taught to be honest, reliable, and resilient. “I watched my parents and siblings work hard in their rewarding careers. It was through them that I saw examples of what persistence looks like. During my 20-year career in dentistry, I had the pleasure of problemsolving. My patients came in with issues and left with solutions. I had the responsibility of making sure they understood what the problem was and how we would solve it together. I enjoyed helping create beautiful, healthy smiles and changing lives daily. Once married, I was put in the position to become a public servant, and I eventually became a pastor’s wife. I took on the cares of others, something that I hold true and dear to my heart,” she says. Additionally, Tuwayna shares that she is a walking resource for people. “If I can’t solve the problem, I will work to find someone who can.”

As a multiple business owner, Tuwanya works hard to maintain the reputation of being fair and honest and being a provider of awesome customer service. That is something that she instills in her children and grandchildren. “We give back to the community schools and organizations through sponsorship and monetary donations. As a small business owner, I know the challenges of keeping the doors open and employee retention. All of our businesses survived Covid-19 and are still viable. There are many businesses in Rockdale County that come and go so quickly. As a County Commissioner, I want to find out why and address the needs so that small businesses can survive and thrive here in Rockdale County. I know about using your funds to keep the doors open. I can relate to the everyday challenges business owners face. I would like to be a resource and liaison between business owners and the county. I know that some of this may sound cliché, but it is really who I am. I really care about the welfare of people and want to help make the lives of others a little better,” she says.

Tuwanya’s term as Commissioner for Post 1 in Rockdale County will begin in January 2025. In her role, she plans to be a voice for all citizens of Rockdale County. “I want to make sure everyone has what they need, not just the children but even our senior citizens. I plan to work with the school board and public safety officials to make our community better,” she says.

After being active in her community and seeing firsthand what was happening, Tuwanya decided to take her efforts to another level and be more impactful. “I saw there was a need for the people, and their voices were not being heard. I felt that a void existed between the government and the people. I thought that our people needed a representative to work for them, and that is why I decided to run.”

I want to balance development within the community and preserve our character as well. I want to be transparent and keep members of our community informed about what is happening with our county government.

Tuwanya’s husband, Tony, has impacted her life and career the most. Tony is a pastor of a local church, and for twenty-two of the years that he has served, Tuwanya has witnessed the difference that he has made in the lives of others. “I saw how important it is to have someone in your corner and on your side during the ups and downs of life. He inspired me to serve and make a difference in the lives of others,” she says.

As Tuwanya moves closer to the start of her new assignment, she is also preparing for the seen and unseen. “I want to balance development within the community and preserve our character as well. I want to be transparent and keep members of our community informed about what is happening with our county government,” she says.

The advice Tuwanya offers to others who are seeking a career in public service is very simple. “Don’t do it for the money. Please make sure that you have a love for people and a genuine desire to bring change. Your community is depending on you and that is why they elect you.”