Director, Don & Ellie Knauss Veteran Resource & Support Center (VRSC), Texas A&M University (Since 2012)

Director, Office of Veteran Services (OVS), Texas A&M University System (Since 2018)

Col. Smith served for thirty years as a US Marine Artillery Officer, holding six command tours with two combat tours (Iraq 2003 & Afghanistan 2007).  Other military assignments included eight years in higher education: three years as the Marine Instructor at Rice and Prairie View A&M; one year instructing at the USMC Command & Staff College; and four years as the TAMU Professor of Naval Science from 2008-2012. He earned a Master of Science in Strategic Studies from the National War College, a Master of Science in Military Studies from the U.S. Marine Corps Command & Staff College, and a Master of Arts in International Relations from Troy State University.  Col. Smith’s Bachelor of Arts is in Political Science from Texas A&M University.

As the VRSC Director, Col. Smith leads a talented team that identifies, develops, and provides uniquely tailored services that enhance academic success and holistic development of Veterans & Military-Affiliated students.  As the OVS Director, he facilitates support, collaboration and communication between the 11 Texas A&M University System campuses that enroll over 4,500 student veterans and 7,000 military family members.  Col. Smith has raised nearly $15 million to support Aggie student veteran scholarships and programs.  He received the Congressional Veterans Commendation Award from Congressman Bill Flores (2014), and the TAMU John J. Koldus III Faculty & Staff Achievement Award (2015).

Col. Smith and his wife Cindy ’83 enjoy scuba diving, boating, fishing and spending time with their three granddaughters.