Saint Louis University has now appointed Scott Smith to be SLU’s first official dean of students, after changes within the administration structure. Though part of Smith’s position was held last year by former Associate Vice President Phil Lyons, the new title encompasses many new responsibilities.

Smith’s main duties include overseeing the cross-cultural center, student life, office of student conduct and the Simon Recreation Center. He will be working closely with Leanna Fenneburg, assistant vice president of student life, and Kent Porterfield, Ed.D., vice president of student development, to provide leadership for the school.

Smith is confident because there are “a lot of good staff and talented student groups” here at SLU.

Smith sought out SLU for many reasons. In addition to the desire to be closer to his extended family, Smith is seeking new challenges.

“I get excited about people who are striving for excellence . Father Biondi wants to make SLU the number one Catholic institution in the country,” Smith said. He has worked at about six institutions in his 19 years of experience, including Seattle University and Marquette University.

He said, “Jesuit traditions and mission are special, and they have a lot of congruence with higher education.”

During his five years at Seattle University, Smith was the director of housing and residence life until his fourth year, when he was promoted to assistant dean of students, in addition to his other title.

“It’s inspiring to be men and women for others,” Smith said, and that feeling is evident in his experience at Seattle University. His focus was on the students’ resident experiences, and he wanted to ensure it was a campus that valued diversity and care, a goal he has brought with him to the SLU campus: “Part of the ethos of care is how do we engage diversity on our campus, where folks are free not to feel marginalized but to feel open and welcome.”

A focus on student involvement and the creation of a “vibrant campus life” are at the core of Smith’s personal mission. Some of the many questions he brings to the table for his colleagues are “How do we contribute to student learning and development?” and, most importantly, “How do you keep students at the center of conversation?” Porterfield is a witness to the personality of Smith, and has said some very positive comments that can assure the SLU community of Smith’s perfect fit.

“He is genuine, reflective, clearly student-centered, is a good listener and involves students in decision making,” said Porterfield. He felt that since Smith had previous experience at Jesuit institutions, he could relate to SLU right from the start.

Smith said that he is fortunate that the timing for his arrival at SLU happened when it did. When asked how long he is planning to stay, Smith said “I am honored to be a part of SLU, and as long as I do good work, I’m happy to be here.”