B.A., Central Methodist College, M.A., Michigan State University, Ph.D., Michigan State University
Dr. Terry B. Smith is Professor of Political Science and Director of the Honors Program. Between 1996 and 2015 he served as Executive Vice President and Dean for Academic Affairs and institutional liaison with the college’s accreditor, The Higher Learning Commission. He was Interim President in 2013-14 following the retirement of President Gerald Brouder.
Dr. Smith graduated cum laude from Central Methodist College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and minors in English and History. He received both his Master of Arts and Ph.D. in political science from Michigan State University. He was selected as a Fulbright Scholar to England in 1991 and attended the Institute for Educational Management at Harvard University in 2002.
He teaches classes in American politics, including The American Presidency. American Political Parties, Congressional Politics, the American Justice System, American Public Policy, State and Local Government, and American National Government.
He serves as a radio and television election analyst and gives regular political commentary on a local radio station. Dr. Smith has been active in local community and professional organizations. He is currently on the board of directors of the Paul D. Higday Mozart Music Trust, which brings fine classical music performances and broadcasts to mid-Missouri, and is on the board of directors of the local Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Dr. Smith and his wife, Jane, have four grown children and eight grandchildren. He is a life-long St. Louis Cardinals fan.