Click Here To Listen Nashville Business 100 Leading African Americans Dr Tina L Smith
Dr. Tina L. Smith, a native of Alabama currently serves as the interim Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and interim Chief Diversity Officer at Vanderbilt University. Dr. Smith has served in a variety of roles since joining the university in 2002. Prior to transitioning to the Chancellor’s Office in 2016, Smith was the associate dean of students for inclusion initiatives and cultural competence and liaison and director of the Posse Program from 2013 to 2016. From 2007 to 2013, she served as assistant dean and senior director of student health and wellness. She served in numerous student affairs roles from 2002 to 2007, including senior director of residential education, assistant director of student conduct and academic integrity, and associate director of residential education.
Before joining Vanderbilt Smith held higher education position as the University of Alabama, University of Louisville, University of Alabama Birmingham, and University of North Alabama. Dr. Smith completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of North Alabama, where she obtained a BS in Management and MA in Counseling. In 2008 she received a doctorate of education from Tennessee State University.
Dr. Smith is a member of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, the American College Personnel Association, and the Southern Association for College Student Affairs. She recently participated in the 2017 NASPA Certificate Program in Student Affairs Law and Policy, the 2015 Diversity for Leadership Institute done by the National Coalition Building Institute, and the 2013 NASPA Multicultural Institute. Smith was a member of the 2014-2015 Vanderbilt Leadership Academy class and the 2010 NASPA Alice Manicur Symposium for Women Aspiring to be Vice Presidents of Student Affairs.
“I am thankful for the blessing bestowed upon me, education being one of them. Education has opened doors that I never dreamed of being possible. As I reflect upon my career and the opportunities afforded me, I hope to continue giving back to those that follow.” Dr. Smith serves as a mentor to many: students, colleagues, and upcoming professionals. Dr. Smith resides in Nolensville, TN and she enjoys spending time with family and friends.