Ben Smith

Ben Hayward Smith (they/them) was born and raised in South Florida and received their Bachelor of Science in Photography from the Southeast Center for Photographic Studies, which is a prestigious specialized photography program between the University of Central Florida and Daytona State College. Following graduation, they began working as a Curatorial Assistant for the NSU Art Museum, Fort Lauderdale and assisted in the administration of 34 exhibits over five years. Following this, they had the unique opportunity of becoming a Cataloging Assistant for two years at the Old Florida Book Shop where Hayward Smith catalogued hundreds of rare and unique books, ephemera, maps, and illustrations that were published from the sixteenth century through to today. This ultimately inspired them to pursue a career in special collections librarianship. They are currently working towards their Master’s of Art in Library and Information Science from the University of South Florida, while also working part-time as a Collections Specialist at Stonewall National, Museum, Archives, & Library in Fort Lauderdale. After managing the archives and library at Stonewall for two years, Hayward Smith has found their calling and looks forward to many years in the special collections industry. Additionally, they are an avid reader, amateur cook, figure skater, artist, and a fervent pun enthusiast.