Tequila Smith is the Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at Covanta

Saint Augustine’s University (SAU)’s Board of Trustees adds new leadership. Tequila Smith, Executive Vice President, and Chief Sustainability Officer, Covanta, brings more than 20 years of executive leadership experience with her. Her leadership will help advance ongoing efforts to reimagine Saint Augustine’s University.

“I’m honored to be joining the SAU Board of Trustees,” said Smith. “I hold this appointment in high esteem because it aligns strongly with my personal commitment to furthering higher education for the next generation of Black leaders, as well as with the work I do at Covanta. At Covanta, a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace is key to our long-term success. It’s why we are committed as a company to initiatives like the HBCU Partnership Challenge that gives us access to exceptional talent at schools like Saint Augustine’s University. Making a positive impact on the community through these efforts and more is part of our mission and one that drives the innovation that ensures a better tomorrow for all of us.” 

Smith is an experienced engineering executive. Her career includes leadership that has shaped external affairs and sustainability at energy utility companies, including Southern Company, Georgia Power, and Alabama Power. Smith currently leads at Covanta, a premier provider of environmental solutions benefitting businesses and communities across North America, where she is helping to extend its mission to become a leader in sustainable materials management.

“We are extremely excited to have Tequila Smith join the board of trustees here at Saint Augustine’s University. Tequila’s experience as an engineer who understands the need for sustainability will be invaluable as we prepare to expand our campus’ infrastructure,” said Board Chairman, The Honorable Justice James E.C. Perry.

Prior to serving in her current role at Covanta, Smith served in multiple leadership roles in the energy utility industry, including as General Manager of Renewable Energy Operations at Southern Company; Director of Energy Services at Alabama Power Company; Vice President of Charitable Giving at Alabama Power Foundation; and Vice President of Sustainability at Georgia Power Company.

Smith earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alabama at Birmingham; a Master of Business Administration from the University of Alabama; and a Master of Arts, Communications Studies: Organizational Leadership from the University of Alabama.