Steven A. Smith has been appointed by Student Life Vice President Janet S. Scharman as the new director of Brigham Young University’s Counseling and Career Center, effective June 1.
He replaces former director Kirk Dougher, who has accepted a position in Florida.
“Dr. Smith has a strong foundation in research, teaching and clinical work, and he is well loved and respected by his students and colleagues,” said Scharman. “This, in addition to his prior leadership experience, make him particularly well qualified to assume the directorship of the Counseling and Career Center.”
Smith has been a member of the BYU faculty since 1992 and has served in a number of capacities, including as associate director of the CCC. He holds a joint appointment with the CCC and the Department of Counseling Psychology and Special Education in BYU’s David O. McKay School of Education.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in special education and a master’s degree in counseling and guidance, both from BYU, before completing a doctorate in counseling and student personnel psychology from the University of Minnesota in 1981.
Smith has received several on-going grants to support his research studying the cultural identity and educational transition issues facing American Indian students. He has also presented his research at many professional conferences and in scholarly journals.
“I extend my appreciation to the other highly qualified candidates who expressed a willingness to serve,” said Scharman. “We are extremely fortunate to have individuals of such strong caliber and commitment at BYU.”
A division of Student Life, the CCC has more than 80 full-time professionals to help students make important decisions along their paths at BYU. Staff members possess expertise in academic advising, career advising, finding internships and jobs, preparing and applying for graduate school, improving learning and study skills and resolving personal issues.
For more information, visit http://ccc.byu.edu/ or contact Steve Smith at (801) 422-3035.