ABOUT REV. DAMON SMITH, M.Div.
Licensed Minister in the State of Illinois
Ordained Minister in the Progressive National Baptist Convention
Rev. Damon O. Smith serves as the Youth Pastor and Associate Minister of Social Justice at Liberty Baptist Church of Chicago, under the leadership of Rev. Andrew D. Hunt, Jr., CPA, M.Div. His ministerial responsibilities include directing youth ministry, lecturing in Baptist history, and leading multigenerational advocacy and social justice initiatives. Rev. Smith is also an award-winning preacher, having received the Homiletics Award from McCormick Theological Seminary, where he earned his degree in 2019.
Rev. Smith brings extensive experience in intergovernmental affairs, civic engagement, community organizing, program development, professional coaching, and mentorship. His interdisciplinary background enables him to bridge faith leadership, public policy, and community empowerment.
Affectionately known as “The Bow-Tie Baptist,” Rev. Smith has taught at the collegiate level for more than 15 years in the fields of computer science, economics, and public relations. He has overseen mentoring and tutoring programs for minority students, coordinated major student events, and produced concerts, fashion shows, and other special programs featuring artists such as Common, Kanye West, A Tribe Called Quest, Yolanda Adams, Hugh Masekela, and Eric Roberson.
Local and national elected officials frequently call upon Rev. Smith for his expertise in fostering collaboration among diverse constituencies to achieve shared goals. He is known for translating complex technical, legislative, and procedural concepts into clear and actionable strategies, and for equipping stakeholders—including directly impacted communities—to work together effectively.
As a sought-after coach and consultant, Rev. Smith prepares nonprofit, religious, and corporate leaders to expand their organizational capacity, footprint, membership, and revenue. His methodology includes guiding clients through honest assessment, interpreting realistic outcomes, and designing scalable strategies for implementation.
“It is the client’s future; therefore, the client must be engaged in the fulfillment of their future.”
— Rev. Damon O. Smith
Awards and Honors
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2019 – Ellen & James Taylor Award in Preaching
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2017 – Fellow, Black Theological Leadership Institute, Princeton Theological Seminary
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2017 – Ellen & James Taylor Award in Preaching
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2017 – Kenilworth Union Church Urban Ministry Scholarship
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2016 – Chicago Defender Man of Excellence Honoree
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2015 – Excellence in Preaching Award, Business & Professional Club
Appointments and Leadership Roles
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2018–2023 – Outreach Director, Bud Billiken Day Parade
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2016–Present – Chairman, 3rd Ward Pastors & Ministers Alliance
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2014–2019 – Chaplain, Chicago Area Morehouse College Alumni Association
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2014–Present – Publicity & Events Committee Chair, Xi Lambda Chapter, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
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2013–2024 – Outreach Director, Chicago Football Classic
