Former Nike designer shares his life journey through faith and footwear

Liberty University students were inspired to follow the spark God gives them to live lives that honor Him during Friday morning’s Convocation featuring longtime Nike designer Wilson W. Smith III.

During his 41-year tenure at Nike, Smith worked on projects that span the design profession — retail, graphics, architecture, footwear, experience, brand, and apparel. He designed and developed products for notable athletes in Nike history, including Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, and Derek Jeter.

Wilson is also a professor in product design at the University of Oregon, where his studio focus is Adaptive Design Enabling Athletes with Disabilities.

As a believer with a passion for creativity, Smith said he draws inspiration and purpose from the ultimate Creator who made the universe. He grew up loving to sketch and paint, began his career as an engineer, and eventually found his way to Nike showrooms and onto his career field as a platform to glorify and worship God.

Smith said every person is a creator and artist in their own way, and every designer has a “SPARK” — the acronym he used in his message for story, passion, art, reflection, and knowledge. He shared stories from his career, such as working with NBA legend Michael Jordan on many Air Jordan sneakers and even having an unexpected epiphany for the customizable Jordan XVII based on a sermon by late theologian Dr. R.C. Sproul. He recalled using the “old and new” mix of jazz and hip-hop music as a basis for his designs over the years.

Smith said he would not be where he is without mentors and collaborators who have supported him and believed in him on his journey, citing the example of Tinker Hatfield Jr., a fellow Nike designer who preceded Smith in creating Air Jordans. He encouraged Liberty students to find and lean on quality mentors whose influence will take them further than they may expect.

“You’re much more influenced by the people who believe in you than the other people that you believe in,” he said. “Think about those mentors — think about those teachers, your parents — the people who have mentored you and carried you along. You’re much more influenced by their belief in you so that you can step out on the platform of whatever you choose to go to.”

On Thursday and Friday, Smith spoke to students in multiple classes that relate to the business and design industry.