On July 1, 2020, University Advancement named John Smith as interim associate vice president of University Development. As of January 1, 2021, Smith has permanently accepted the associate vice president position and will continue to provide long-term strategic leadership for the university’s philanthropic needs; offer day-to-day leadership of the Development Team; and serve as a thought partner to deans, chairpersons and other academic leaders. Previously, Smith served as the executive director of University Advancement and has 25 years of experience in relationship building, fundraising and advancement policy. Smith holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in computer science and a Master of Business Administration Degree, both from Tennessee Tech.