Andrew Smith

Between his involvement in numerous campus organizations, teaching multiple English and religious studies courses, and being head of Tech’s Tree House learning village, it’s a miracle that Andrew Smith finds time to sleep. However, he says that being busy and involved is the way he likes to spend his time.

Smith earned his undergraduate degree from Wayne State University, his master’s degree in English from Middle Tennessee State University, and his master’s degree in theological studies from Vanderbilt Divinity School.

He started his teaching career at MTSU, but once he came to Tech he said he knew he was in the right place.

“I’m a community person and an activist by nature; higher education is a profession where these gifts and passions are respected and honored,” said Smith. “Being a faculty member and campus community member, this means that, most of the time, I get to be myself. For a career where I don’t have to leave my personality at the door, for this I am truly grateful.”

In his role as faculty head of the Tree House, Tech’s environmental learning village, Smith puts his love of the campus and community on a professional level. He organizes guest speakers, social events, field trips, service learning projects and promotes activism. He recently took a group from campus to Selma, Alabama to march at the 50th anniversary bridge crossing.

Smith volunteers as a DJ for WTTU, frequently attends guest lectures and sporting events, organizes learning village events, co-hosts open mic nights for students, and is starting a new performance poetry club this fall.

He received the faculty Home Instead Senior Care Distinguished Service Learning Award for 2016 and was named an Outstanding Diversity Advocate by Tennessee Tech University’s Commission on the Status of Blacks in 2015.