William Clay Kinchen Smith, PhD

Information

If you know me from a previous class, then you know how much I stress models; if not, then you just learned something about me and my teaching methods and philosophies.

You might also know that I am originally from Tennessee: I grew up in a very rural part of the state where you farmed, made moonshine (this was before meth), chopped cars, and/or farmed.  If you have watched the old Walking Tall movies (the ones from the 70s), you can see where and when I grew up--even some of the people I knew then (You can also find those videos for free on platforms like YouTube and Amazon Prime: NOT the Rock’s version, but the Joe Don Baker version.).  In Tennessee, I grew up mostly barefooted on a farm that has been in our family for almost 200 years. 

From there, I attended Vanderbilt University, worked for a major national newspaper in Nashville, then moved here in 1990 to attend UF where I graduated with my PhD.  In the meantime, I married the love of my life with whom I just celebrated our 35^th wedding anniversary.

As you might also know, I have taught at UF (undergrad and grad [in the MBA program]) and here at SF (20+ years now).  In addition, I have authored much of the College’s accreditation materials (until about 10 years ago) and most recently helped choose our current president, Dr. Paul Broadie (who you should meet when you have the chance because he is incredible).  I have also published on a range of topics, from comics, religion, teaching, and the gothic.  

As you can see, I love teaching because I want to empower students to succeed in their careers and lives. I look forward to working with each of you.  

Education

• PhD: University of Florida, 2002
• MA:   University of Florida, 1993  
• BA:    Vanderbilt University, 1983