Nick E. Smith is a Democratic strategist, nonprofit executive, and senior advisor with experience in government, advocacy, and campaigns.
He has served as First Deputy Public Advocate of New York City, Executive Director of a housing justice group, and advisor to elected officials, agency heads, and candidates.
housing policy strategist
Nick was lead staff for the Council Housing Committee ('14–'17), passing laws on minimum apartment temperatures, reducing construction deaths, promoting bike-to-work, and renewing rent regulation. Later, as First Deputy Public Adv, he helped pass a homeowner tax break and mandated racial reviews of proposed rezonings.
Justice System Reform Expert
As Legislative Director in the NYC Council, Nick conceived of numerous policies and built coalitions to pass them. He played key roles in co-authoring #FairChanceNYC.
Nick has authored or co-authored over 55 local laws. and. negotiated more than 200 as a Mayoral aide, including a law eliminating calling fees for families reaching loved ones on Rikers Island.
Nick is recognized for his work on gun violence prevention. Having survived childhood crossfire with his twin sister Nichole, he works with leaders to address firearm proliferation and underlying social causes. Nick co-founded the National Network to Combat Gun Violence, focused on comprehensive solutions.
Public Speaker
Nick speaks to diverse audiences about policy change and resilience, blending his personal journey and community stories with actionable solutions at the core of every presentation. To book Nick for a speaking engagement or consultation, please visit the contact page.
Mentor
Nick routinely mentors young professionals pursuing careers in public service. Recently, he addressed the New York City Urban Fellows, sharing insights from his own journey. “You don’t have to follow the beaten path—you can chart your own course. You must remain resilient through it all,” he emphasized.
The solutions to our challenges already exist—rooted in the experiences and voices of those historically overlooked.