Another Ghanaian-American professional is making an impressive mark in the United States, as attorney Nana Asante-Smith continues to earn recognition for her work in law, business leadership and community service.
Asante-Smith has been named among North Carolina’s 50 Most Influential Women for 2026, an honor presented by North Carolina Lawyers Weekly recognizing women who have demonstrated leadership, business acumen, mentorship and meaningful involvement in their communities.
The recognition adds another major achievement to what has already been a remarkable year for the North Carolina attorney.
Asante-Smith, who practices with Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP, focuses on internal and governmental investigations, white-collar and business litigation, as well as cases involving allegations of sex discrimination at colleges and universities. Her professional experience has included representing clients in industries ranging from financial services and healthcare to manufacturing and education.
But the “50 Most Influential Women” recognition is far from her only major honor in 2026.
She was also selected for the American Bar Association’s On The Rise-Top 40 Young Lawyers Award, a national recognition celebrating young attorneys who have demonstrated achievement, leadership, innovation and commitment to legal and community service.
Additionally, the National Bar Association named Asante-Smith among its Top 40 Under 40: Nation’s Best Advocates, recognizing attorneys for excellence in advocacy, leadership, professionalism and community involvement.
Her influence extends beyond the courtroom. Asante-Smith serves on the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority Board, the North Carolina Central University Board of Visitors and the Durham YMCA Advisory Board, among other civic and professional roles.
With multiple major recognitions arriving in the same year, Nana Asante-Smith’s growing profile highlights another Ghanaian-American professional building a distinguished career in the United States while contributing to the wider community.
Her achievements in 2026 have placed her among a prominent group of attorneys and civic leaders whose work is being recognized both across North Carolina and nationally.
