The Davis & Elkins College Board of Trustees have established the G.T. ‘Buck’ Smith Presidential Chair in honor of the College’s 13th President in appreciation for his years of service from 2008 to 2013. It is funded with initial commitments totaling $1 million from members of the Board of Trustees.
In addition to supporting the President’s salary, the endowment provides discretionary funds for the President to underwrite initiatives that add to the distinctive quality of Davis & Elkins College.
Smith announced his retirement plans in March and voluntarily stepped down on June 30. He continues to serve the College as President-Emeritus and College Advisor.
Trustee June Myles made the surprise announcement of the creation of the chair during a Board dinner in June prior to the College’s “Notes of Thanks” concert – a tribute to Smith and his wife, Joni, for their contributions to the College and community. President Smith expressed his surprise for the honor, responding in brief comments: “The privilege of serving D&E these past five years is reward enough. To experience such an expression of gratitude is overwhelming.”
Myles noted the difference Smith has made during his tenure at Davis & Elkins College. Under his leadership, D&E increased its full-time enrollment by more than 50 percent, paid off all of its external debt and completed more than $10 million in campus improvements. His six-step game plan, announced on his first day as President, was to reduce expenses, recruit students, retain students, raise funds, renew programs and reach for new opportunities. His student-centered initiatives, including the Highlands Scholarship, have received widespread attention, including national press coverage.
According to Myles, the G.T. ‘Buck’ Smith Presidential Chair will be formally dedicated during Homecoming 2013 on the D&E campus. D&E President Dr. Michael Mihalyo Jr. will be the first holder of the Smith Chair.
