ABOUT THE PRESIDENT

Prior to coming to the University of Mobile, Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr. served as senior vice president for Institutional Relations and assistant professor of Christian Leadership at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College in Kansas City, Missouri.

During his 11-year tenure, Smith oversaw a variety of functions, including the offices of Enrollment Management, Advancement, Alumni Relations, Church Partnerships, Student and Resident Life, Marketing and Communications, Financial Aid, Dean of Students, and Student Success. Smith also co-founded the For The Church conference and resource platform, and established the For The Church Institute, a growing suite of free online classes serving thousands of students around the world. As an elected faculty member, Smith also taught various business and leadership classes at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels, including designing and overseeing Midwestern’s PhD in Christian Leadership. During his time in Kansas City, the institution experienced record success, with enrollment growing from 1,100 to over 5,200 students.

He and his wife, Ashley, are originally from Montgomery, Alabama, and have three daughters, Ellie, Annie and Susie.

“My wife and I are thrilled to be coming back home to Alabama to join the University of Mobile,” Smith said. “Thanks to President Burnett, his leadership team and countless others within the UM family, this university is stronger than ever and poised for even greater effectiveness. The University of Mobile is grounded in God’s Word, driven by a compelling vision, served by a world-class faculty and staff, and cherished by the UM family. I look forward to linking arms with the countless faculty, staff and supporters who make this place so special.”