Meet Susan Smith

Susan Smith serves as secretary for academic affairs and student development with the Missouri Academy of Science, Mathematics and Computing. She is a native of Long Island, N.Y., and attended the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Va., where she met her husband, Dr. Dan Smith, who is an assistant professor of political science at Northwest.

The Smiths have two twin children, Benjamin and Sarah, who attend the Horace Mann Laboratory School. Currently seeking her master’s degree in educational leadership, Susan enjoys reading, needlework and singing.

What is your favorite thing to do on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon?

Watch football – Go Bearcats – or read.

What would you do if you won the lottery?

After putting money away for the kids’ college education, I would travel.

What is the most powerful historical event you remember or have witnessed?

I think 9/11 eclipses everything else. Just as my parents remember what they were doing the day Kennedy was assassinated, I will always remember what I was doing on that September morning.

What is your favorite time of the year, and why?

Fall – I love the cooler temps and the changing leaves.

What dream adventure or trip would you like to take in your lifetime?

I would like to visit Greece. … maybe take a cruise of the Greek Islands.

Do you “collect” anything?

Cows and books.

If you could teach one thing to today’s college students, what would it be?

To appreciate their college experience while it is happening and not be so eager to get out into the workforce.

What musical ability do you have?

I sing, and I also play the violin, though I haven’t touched it in years.

What is your favorite author and/or book?

Dean Koontz. He’s a little creepy, but all of his books have a positive message.

What famous people have you met?

I met Al Franken at a book signing, and I also met Richard Harris after a performance of "Camelot."

If you could be on any TV show, which would you pick, and why?

"The West Wing," though it is no longer on the air. I thought it was one of the best written and acted shows on television.

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Northwest Missouri State University

Meet Susan Smith