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Wilson Smith (Wilson W. Smith III, born 2 October, 1960) is the renowned designer of many Nike and Jordan athletic products. Smith is currently involved in Nike’s Better World projects, and is a lead designer as a part of Nike’s “Innovation Kitchen”.

Early Life
Smith grew up in Beaverton, Oregon. He attended the University of Oregon and graduated from the School of Architecture in 1980. He worked in the field of architecture for three years before being hired by Nike in 1983 as their corporate interior designer. Initially, he designed showrooms, stores and offices, as well as various graphic publications.

Nike
After 4 years with Nike, Smith made the jump to Product Design. During the ‘80’s, the footwear industry in the U.S. began to expand both in technology and style. Becoming a Senior Designer in 1990, Smith was involved primarily with the concepts of Nike's Cross Training and Basketball products.

Smith established much of the design direction for Tennis footwear throughout the 90's, and created many athlete-endorsed products including Andre Agassi's signature line. In 2003, Wilson became the Design Director of Nike Court, encompassing all tennis & racquet driven footwear, while also designing signature products for Nike endorsees Serena Williams, and Roger Federer. Black Enterprise Magazine recently named Wilson one of America’s Top Black Designers.

Jordan
In 1997, Wilson Smith became the first dedicated designer for Jordan brand, and is best known for designing the Jordan 16(XVI) and 17(XVII).

Philanthropy
Smith is heavily involved with Nike’s Better World projects, which include aiding recovery efforts in Haiti, and building athletic infrastructure for struggling high schools in Oregon. He is currently the Design Director for Nike N7, which focuses on bringing sport and all of its benefits to Native American and Aboriginal communities in the USA and Canada.

Wilson is also an Adjunct Professor in Product Design at his alma mater. In addition, he is the worship leader of South Lake Foursquare Church, Lake Oswego, Oregon.