Sandra Smith, current interim dean of the School of Professional Studies, has been named the next dean of SPS effective July 1, according to a Thursday message from Provost Francis Doyle. Smith has served as interim dean since January.
In his email, Doyle praised Smith’s “adept leadership” and “her strategic vision, deep understanding of Brown’s collaborative culture and inclusive leadership style.”
“She brings a powerful combination of entrepreneurial thinking and academic rigor — qualities that will be essential as SPS aims to expand its reach and impact,” Doyle wrote.
In her new role, Smith aims to expand access to existing SPS programs while continuing to develop new offerings, including certificates and both in-person and online master’s degrees, she wrote in a statement shared with The Herald.
During her tenure at SPS, Smith worked in a variety of positions, including program director and senior associate dean. She helped develop the master’s in technology leadership as well as several non-degree programs, according to a University press release. She also oversaw the development of three online master’s programs during her time as interim dean, according to Doyle’s message.
“The transition from interim to permanent dean provides the stability and continuity we need to build on the progress we’ve made together,” Smith wrote. “I’m excited about what we can accomplish as we continue to advance the school’s mission of empowering learners to transform themselves, their workplaces and the communities they serve.”
Smith, who grew up in Colombia, earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Toronto in industrial engineering, The Herald previously reported. She also received a Master of Business Administration from Penn’s Wharton School.
Before coming to Brown, Smith held roles at companies including the Boston Consulting Group and Charles Schwab, according to the University press release. In Providence, Smith also currently serves on the I-195 Redevelopment District Commission as a commissioner and treasurer and is a member of the Board of Trustees for the Wheeler School.
“Sandra’s unique blend of academic experience and business acumen positions her to lead SPS in ways that are responsive to evolving student needs and grounded in Brown’s values,” Doyle wrote.
Ian Ritter is a senior staff writer for university news. A junior studying chemistry, he covers the graduate schools & students and admissions & financial aid beats. When he isn’t at The Herald or exploding lab experiments, you can find him playing the clarinet, watching the Mets or eating Ratty carrot cake.
