Frequently Asked Questions

James "Trey" Smith was a son, friend, engineer, athlete, traveler and dreamer who believed in living life with purpose, curiosity, and determination. 

Trey was known for his kindness, intelligence, drive, and sense of humor. He had a way of making people laugh while also inspiring them to think bigger and work harder towards their goals. 

A lifelong football fan and athlete, Trey learned the value of teamwork, leadership, and perseverance on the field. He carried those same qualities into his studies at West Virginia University, where he was preparing to graduate with a degree in mechanical engineering. 

Trey's dream was to design Formula 1 cars. He was fascinated by innovation, engineering, and the pursuit of excellence. But his interests extended far beyond this. He loved to travel, experience new cultures, and serve others. He believed that some of life's greatest lessons came from stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing new experiences. 

One phrase guided the way Trey lived his life- LITE, Live in the Evolution. To Trey, LITE meant continually growing, adapting, and becoming the best version of yourself. It was a reminder to embrace challenges, pursue your dreams, and never stop evolving. 

Unfortunately, on April 12, 2026, Trey lost  his life tragically in a motorcycle accident in West Viriginia. We do not want Trey's legacy to be defined by how his life ended, but instead by how he lived it- and by the lives that will be changed because of it. 

Live In The Evolution

Created by Trey Smith, LITE is a philosophy of continuous growth, learning, and personal development. It reminds us to embrace challenges, pursue our dreams, and keep evolving into the best versions of ourselves. 

The Trey Smith LITE Project was created in memory of James "Trey" Smith, a mechanical engineering student, athlete, traveler, and aspiring Formula 1 engineer who believed in living life with purpose, curiosity, and determination. Through grants, sponsorship, and opportunity funding, the project helps young people pursue their dreams while honoring Trey's belief to Live In The Evolution. 

Applicants must submit an original essay of no more than 2,000 words addressing the following questions:

- Tell us about yourself. Who are you, and what experiences have shaped the person you are today?

- What opportunity, project, experience or goal are you seeking funding for? Explain what you hope to accomplish and why it is important to you. 

- Why do you need financial support? Describe any obstacles or challenges that make this opportunity difficult to pursue without assistance

- How will this opportunity impact your life? Explain how receiving the funding will help you grow, learn, or move closer to your goals. 

- How will your efforts impact others? Describe how your project could positively affect your community or the world around you. 

- What does personal growth mean to you? The Trey Smith LITE Project is inspired by Trey's belief to "Live In The Evolution". Share how you have embraced growth in your own life, and how this opportunity will help you continue evolving. 

Applicants will be evaluated on:

- current student, primary or secondary

- character and integrity

- vision and ambition

- potential for positive impact

- demonstrated perseverance

- alignment with the spirit of LITE

Note: There is no GPA requirement. We are seeking individuals who demonstrate purpose, determination, and a desire to make a meaningful difference.