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Dr. Kent J. Smith, Jr., President of Langston University since 2012, has announced that he plans to retire from his position at the End of the 2023 Spring semester.
“After more than 30 years as a higher education professional, I am writing to announce my decision to conclude my career in education and retire from Langston University. Please know that this is solely a personal decision, and it is my belief that the time is right for transition not only for me personally but for Langston University as well,” wrote Smith in a special message to the university. “My family and I have thoroughly enjoyed the years spent at Langston University. My children have grown up on our campuses. In fact, my youngest son’s middle name is Langston in honor of our great institution. We are blessed beyond measure to have been on this journey in service to our students and to the entire Langston University family.”
Following a long career in higher education, Dr. Smith became the 16th President of Langston University in June of 2012. His student-centered perspective led the university to thrive under his leadership.
“I will continue to serve as president through the end of the Spring semester, which will complete my eleventh year at Dear Langston. I want to assure you that I am as dedicated now to Langston University as I was when I took office in 2012,” said Smith. “I have confidence that the Board of Regents for the Oklahoma A&M will work diligently to identify the next president to continue our tradition of excellence. I will work with the Board on a succession plan, and I ask for your support in this time of transition.”
Smith’s retirement from Langston University ends his 30-year career in education. Highly regarded for both his leadership and advocacy, Smith has served on multiple boards, both local and national, including the Thurgood Marshall College Fund Board of Directors and the 1890 Council of Presidents for the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities.
“We appreciate Dr. Kent Smith’s unwavering commitment to Langston University since he became President in 2012,” said Jarold Callahan, Chair of the Board of Regents for the Oklahoma A & M System. “As Regents, we express our gratitude to Dr. Smith for his focus on student success and his advocacy for the important role Langston University plays in Oklahoma and the nation. We wish Dr. Smith and his family only the best in his retirement.”
Smith stated that his intention was to follow his entrepreneurial dream and become a Chickfil- A franchise owner/ operator. He intends to work with the Board of Regents on a plan of transition and launch a national search for his replacement.