William Smith squash graduate student Jada Smith-Padmore was named one of 10 finalists for the 2026 Arthur Ashe Jr. Female Sports Scholar of the Year. The award is presented by The EDU Ledger. This year's recipient will be announced in a special report edition on June 4, 2026.
 
The edition is part of the publication's decades-long tradition of recognizing outstanding young men and women who have distinguished themselves in their academic, athletic, and civic pursuits.

In addition to athletic ability, those named 2026 Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholars have maintained at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average, are at least sophomores academically, and participate in community service. With over 900 scholar-athletes nominated, one male and one female athlete will be selected as Sports Scholar of the Year.
 
"Jada demonstrated composure and tenacity playing at the No. 1 spot this past season," said Deputy Athletics Director/Senior Woman Administrator Liz Dennison. "She is a fierce advocate for the sport of squash, herself, and her teammates. Jada is deeply committed to advancing squash at Hobart and William Smith and beyond. She has played a vital role in fostering a culture rooted in passion and inclusion, leaving a lasting impact at HWS."
 
A first team All-Liberty League pick this season, Smith-Padmore finished her season with seven wins, playing all but one of William Smith's matches in the No. 1 spot. A team captain, she closed out her career with a pair of 3-0 sweeps at the CSA Divisional Championships. Smith-Padmore compiled 41 career wins and also earned All-Liberty League recognition in 2023-24.
 
Smith-Padmore qualified and played for Barbados in the Commonwealth Games in 2022. She has been a member of the Barbados National team since 2016.
 
Smith-Padmore graduated in 2024 with a bachelor's degree in writing and rhetoric. She is enrolled in the master's in science and management program.
 
In the Geneva community, Smith-Padmore works with Geneva 2030 as a graduate assistant, organizing and participating in community outreach events to promote college access, career readiness and educational equity. Smith-Padmore has also worked in Barbados with local food distribution programs. She has led and volunteered at youth squash clinics, focusing on mentorship, athletic development and academic support for less fortunate students in her home country.