CHENEY – Lorenzo M. Smith has been appointed as the next provost and vice president for academic affairs at Eastern Washington University effective July 1.
As provost, Smith will serve as Eastern’s chief academic officer, overseeing the Division of Academic Affairs and ensuring that the university’s programs align with its strategic goals.
University President Shari McMahan said Smith’s background makes him a strong leader for the university.
“Dr. Smith brings an impressive depth of leadership and academic expertise,” McMahan said. “His dedication to advancing student success, fostering innovation and creating opportunities for faculty growth align seamlessly with our strategic plan and university values.”
Smith was selected after a national search. He comes to Eastern from Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas, where he served as provost and executive vice president for academic affairs before becoming the special assistant to the president for academic strategies.
Previously, Smith was the dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science at California State University-Sacramento.
He has published 62 peer-reviewed research papers and has two U.S. patents.
Before transitioning to academia, Smith spent a decade in the automotive industry, working in manufacturing and design at Ford, General Motors and Chrysler.
He has also secured $14 million in external funding for research and student programs.
At Stephen F. Austin, Smith founded the Center for Applied Research and Rural Innovation, which developed a maker space to support hands-on learning for students, faculty and community members.
Beyond academics, Smith is active in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education and youth development.
He has served on several boards, including the Square Root Academy, Oakland Youth Orchestra and Sacramento Youth Symphony.
He has also advised the National Society of Black Engineers and contributed to the Detroit Area Pre-College Engineering Program.
Author Bio
Clare McGraw, Reporter
Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.
