Meet the Team

Saranette D. Miles Williams is the director of Career Services at Norfolk State University (NSU) the largest public HBCU (Historically Black College and University) in Virginia. She understands that internship/job searching or career changes can be overwhelming.  She strives to assist students and alumni with the job search, education selection, choosing a major, career exploration, transitioning, and more. With over 20+ years of experience, Saranette has been coaching adult learners, high school seniors, college students, military members, and career changers domestically and internationally. She consults with organizations about recruiting strategies and techniques so that they can get the best ROI. She has worked at Virginia Tech (VT), the University of Florida (UF), Regent University (RU), and Old Dominion University (ODU) before her tenure at NSU. She has volunteered in the community assisting with job search activities and helping clients regarding their “career passions and callings!” Currently, she leads the career readiness efforts at NSU with a staff of knowledgeable professionals trained to help. She looks forward to this upcoming dialogue.

Mr. Terrion Smith serves as the Assistant Director for Career Services at Norfolk State University, where he is committed to preparing students for meaningful careers through professional development, employer engagement, and career readiness initiatives.

A proud Norfolk State alumnus, Mr. Smith earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology in 2016 before beginning his professional career as a Qualified Mental Health Professional working with youth facing mental health challenges. His early work supporting young people inspired his transition into higher education, where he could impact student growth on a broader scale.

Mr. Smith later earned his Master of Education in Higher Education with a concentration in Student Affairs from Regent University. Prior to joining Career Services, he served in several leadership roles within Norfolk State’s Housing and Residence Life department, where he led community development initiatives, coordinated student programs, and supported student leadership and accountability.

In his current role, Mr. Smith focuses on connecting students with career opportunities, cultivating employer partnerships, and developing programs that equip Spartans with the skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce. His work centers on empowering students to explore career pathways, build professional confidence, and successfully transition from college to career.

Mr. Smith is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership and Management at Regent University and remains committed to advancing student success through innovative career development and mentorship.

Terrion Smith, M.Ed.

Assistant Director, Career Services

A long-time member of the Norfolk State University family, Mrs. Laurie Carpenter serves as the Associate Director of Experiential Learning in the Office of Career Services. Her primary responsibilities include supporting the goals and objectives for the department and assisting the Director with ensuring students receive work-based learning and other experiential learning opportunities. Mrs. Carpenter is the primary point of contact in the Director’s absence. In addition to NSU, she has also worked at Old Dominion University and holds degrees from Virginia State University and Regent University.

Christopher Anderson is the Employer Relations Coordinator in Career Services at Norfolk State University, where he has served since 2023. In this role, he cultivates strategic partnerships with employers and creates opportunities for NSU students and alumni to connect with meaningful career pathways.

Christopher earned his degree in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design from Tidewater Community College and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design at Regent University. His background in design and technology brings a creative perspective to employer relations and student career development.

Passionate about student success, Christopher is dedicated to building strong, lasting connections between Spartans and employers that lead to successful internships, employment, and career advancement. He considers it a privilege to be part of the great Career Services team at Norfolk State University, where he is committed to ensuring every NSU student has access to the resources and opportunities needed to achieve their professional goals.