John W. Smith appointed as Tennessee Tech’s interim Vice President for University Advancement.
Smith has worked at the university for more than 30 years, most recently serving as the associate vice president for university development. He earned both a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a Master of Business Administration from Tennessee Tech.
“John’s decades of service to the university and his deep connections to our alumni and supporters make him a natural fit to guide the Division of University Advancement during these months ahead,” Oldham said in the release. “We appreciate the steady leadership, breadth of institutional knowledge and passion for continuing to elevate the university that John brings to this role.”
Smith fills a vacancy left by Kevin Braswell, who stepped down from the position at the end of March.
The Division of University Advancement includes the Crawford Alumni Center, University Development, Advancement Services, and the Tennessee Tech Foundation.
“I am grateful to President Oldham for the confidence he has in me to lead the Division of University Advancement during this interim period,” Smith said. “The Advancement team is made up of dedicated professionals who care about each other and work each day to increase the levels of engagement and philanthropy among our alumni and donor base.”
The press release said the division secures philanthropic resources to assist students, faculty, and staff.
“Tennessee Tech is a special place, and the Advancement team looks forward to enhancing the student experience through strategic philanthropic work,” Smith said.
The press release said Smith began his career in University Advancement in 1995 and took over leadership of Advancement Services in 2014. He was named the 2021 Mentor of the Year by the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District III.
Smith lives in Sparta and has served on the White County Board of Education since 2024.