Kate Smith

Kate Smith, Ed.D., serves as Rio Salado College’s sixth president. She is a deeply passionate educational leader, who advocates for student success on all levels— and has a long track record of responding to student and community needs through innovative ideas, programs, and partnerships. With more than 30 years of experience in education, Smith understands the barriers non-traditional students face and is dedicated to making education affordable, accessible, and equitable for all. Partnerships, workforce development, and culture building are cornerstones of Rio Salado College’s history and President Smith’s administration. She is continuing the tradition of collaborating with students, alumni, employees, other institutions, industry, and thought leaders to improve higher learning and economic prosperity for all. President Smith also regularly serves on community advisory boards and think tanks. Her most recent roles include co-chair of the education committee for the Arizona-Mexico Commission; Governing Board Vice Chair of the Presidents Forum; Higher Education Research and Development Institute (HERDI) Advisory Board; Alliance for Innovation & Transformation (AFIT) Executive Committee Member; American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Commission on Institutional Infrastructure & Transformation; Maricopa County Community College District Foundation Executive Board; PHX East Valley Partnership Board of Directors; Excelencia Presidents for Latino Student Success; Arizona Women in Higher Education; Packback Advisory Board; Community College Workforce Pell Advisory Board Member; and Board of Directors Ex Officio member for the Friends of Public Radio Arizona and Tempe Chamber of Commerce. Smith holds a doctorate degree in community college leadership from Ferris State University, a master’s degree in mathematical education from the University of Rochester, a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and German from William Smith College and was a 2020-21 Aspen Rising Presidents Fellow. Smith is also passionate about learning, mathematics, being an active member of her community, and her philanthropic work. She and her husband Dennis enjoy spending time with family, running, biking, marathons, and hiking Arizona’s trails.