Nicholas A Smith, PhD

Nick joined CCI in 2007, seeing exponential advancement today in the programs, services, and spaces that CCI offers students, along with research data that indicates how CCI's work helps students build community at the University of Michigan. He loves working in CCI's dynamic, creative, continuously evolving organization that centers community building and student engagement. College students involved on campus, in whatever ways are important to them, are more likely to feel a sense of belonging and better navigate college life. Nick is always up for big laughs and critical conversations to re-image our work and improve student and staff experience. He earned a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership from Colorado State University, researching student learning across cultures and difference in co-curricular campus environments. In addition, he earned a master's degree in higher education from Pennsylvania State University and a bachelor's degree in communication from Ohio University. Nick and his husband John have two spoiled green-cheeked conures, Beatrix and Daryl, two green-cheeked conures! Nick and John enjoy long walks, favorite restaurants, visiting family, fixing up their home, taking in local events, and traveling to new places.

In addition to CCI, Nick serves as University Unions Senior Associate Director, responsible for unit strategy with the University Unions Leadership Team. He also supervises and provides leadership to Campus Information as an additional way to guide students getting connected to campus and the myriad of resources available.