L.I. Smith and Associates Launches NIL Initiative, Welcomes Bethel Golfer Logan Rory

PARIS — L.I. Smith and Associates of Paris, Tenn. has officially launched its Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program, announcing Bethel University senior golfer Logan Rory as its inaugural partner. The initiative aims to leverage NIL as a recruiting tool to attract talent and foster relationships within local communities.

Patrick Smith, President of L.I. Smith and Associates, introduced Rory, a business administration major from Dover, Tennessee, as the first student-athlete to join their program. Rory will serve as a campus ambassador and brand representative for the company. “We’re not recruiting majors, we’re recruiting mindsets,” Smith stated, emphasizing the company’s focus on character, work ethic, values, and a desire to grow and lead. He added that the program is about “building relationships before resumes” and creating pathways for internships, mentorship, and long-term careers.

As part of the agreement, Mr. Rory received a financial gift and branded merchandise, or ‘swag,’ featuring custom embroidery from Lake Dwellers. The partnership was formalized with a contract signing, and Rory was photographed alongside Patrick Smith.

The company highlighted that this program underscores a commitment to local talent, demonstrating that meaningful work and professional growth are accessible in towns such as Paris, Martin, McKenzie, and Dover, not just in larger cities.

L.I. Smith and Associates acknowledged key partners supporting this venture, including Pepsi Mid America for beverages, The Happy BookStack and McKenzie Tap Room and Restaurant for gift packages, and NIL Vena Sports for guidance through the NIL process. The company also recognized Derek Horne, Vice President of Athletics at Bethel, and Dr. Wayne Scott, Executive Vice President at Bethel University, for their leadership and support, and Dr. Josh Greer.

Looking ahead, L.I. Smith and Associates plans to expand its campus ambassador program beyond student-athletes. Mary Ray Smith, a graduate student at the University of Tennessee at Martin, is set to become the first non-student-athlete campus ambassador, furthering the company’s goal of recruiting talent and opportunities across universities and retaining skilled individuals in West Tennessee.

About L.I. Smith
LIS is a full-service, integrative engineering and surveying company serving the public and private sectors. Licensed in 12 states across the Central and Southeast regions, LIS has an experienced team that can provide multistate coverage for projects of all sizes in land development, infrastructure design, and surveying.

With 50 years of industry experience, you can trust LIS with your next project. We combine industry expertise with new, cutting-edge technology to provide innovative solutions to real-world problems. LIS is a certified Tennessee Small Business Enterprise headquartered in Paris, Tenn., with a branch located in Nashville.