Features: Feb. 18, 2002

Mark Smith Named Dean of Students

Mark Smith has been named dean of students at Rensselaer. Smith has served as interim dean of students since March 2000.

"Clearly, Mark Smith was head and shoulders above other candidates competing for the dean of students position," said Eddie Ade Knowles, vice president for student life at Rensselaer. "The search committee, President Shirley Ann Jackson, and I all concur that Mark is well-suited to provide leadership for the Dean of Students Office to ensure that all of our students are well-served."

Smith, who has served in higher education for more than 20 years, joined Rensselaer in 1986 as assistant dean of students and director of academic support programs. He was appointed acting director of the Office of Minority Students Affairs (OMSA) in 1993.

In 1995, Smith was named OMSA director and was promoted associate dean of students. During that time, Smith administered numerous OMSA programs and workshops, and established many corporate and professional contacts for minority students seeking internships, co-ops, and job placement. His experience at Rensselaer also includes curriculum development for precollege and pipeline activities.