Chance Smith ’12 turns experience into innovation with GoghNow

Chance Smith, a 2012 graduate of Radford University, credits his alma mater for playing a pivotal role in shaping both his personal and professional journey. As the COO and co-founder of GoghNow, a tech marketplace that provides event amenities and services, Smith reflects on the sense of community and the transformative experiences he gained during his time at Radford.

"My time at Radford was great. I think there was a huge community element to Radford, and it made me feel like I was a part of something that was a lot larger than myself," Smith said. He graduated with a degree in Business Management, a field he always felt drawn to, though he was unsure of the specific path he would take.

"Across the board, I had different professors who had different experiences, and they would share their insights," he said. "It was always leading in a direction that would just really help the growth and the pathway that leads you to where you need to go in life."

Smith's entrepreneurial journey began before Radford but gained clarity and focus during his time at the university. GoghNow, which now serves four major markets, has grown into a "one-stop shop" for event services.

"While at Radford, I think I really honed in on a lot of these different experiences. I did not know it was going to be what it is today," Smith said. "Those lived experiences and challenges really lead to finding something you're not only passionate about but also something that leads to impact for others."

A dedicated basketball player since the age of five, Smith also cherishes the cultural exchange and camaraderie he experienced on the court at Radford. "From a basketball standpoint, I don't think I've ever played with people from so many different countries and backgrounds, and that was a great learning experience," he said. Even today, Smith continues to follow Radford's basketball team closely, feeling a deep connection to the Highlander spirit. "When you see that red on TV... you get cold chills. It's something where you feel like this is a part of me."

Smith's connection to Radford extends beyond sports. The relationships he formed as a student remain a cornerstone of his personal and professional network. "Radford was a place for me to make connections with people I've probably never come in contact with ever in my life. And I still have those connections to this day," he said.