Interim Presidency Assigned to Smeed at Park University
Shane B. Smeed has been appointed as the interim president of Park University, effective from January 1, 2021. Smeed, who has been serving as the vice president and chief operating officer of the university since September 2015, steps into this new role with a wealth of experience in higher education leadership.
Smeed's responsibilities as interim president include providing strategic direction, overseeing operations, and ensuring the University's continued success. He is committed to a "Park United" and leading a University that celebrates diversity, serves a growing student body, and earns recognition from its faculty and staff as an employer of choice.
Smeed's leadership extends to more than half of the University's staff, as he provides strategic and tactical leadership in areas such as enrollment management, student success, financial aid services, marketing, student engagement, athletics, and campus center operations.
Prior to his appointment as interim president, Smeed served as the acting president for six weeks. His tenure as president emeritus began after Greg Gunderson, Ph.D., left his position as president of Park University.
Smeed's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in business operations from DeVry Institute of Technology, a Master of Business Administration degree from Keller Graduate School of Management, and he is currently pursuing a Master of Arts degree in student personnel administration from St. Louis University. He is also pursuing a doctoral degree in higher education administration from St. Louis University.
Smeed's commitment to education and leadership extends beyond Park University. He has served on the board of directors of Synergy Services in Parkville and on the board of trustees for the Command and General Staff College Foundation at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. He has also held volunteer leadership roles with several Kansas City area organizations.
Smeed's appointment as interim president marks a new chapter in the leadership of Park University. His belief in the University's motto, Fides et Labor (Latin for faith and work), inspires students, faculty, and staff to achieve all their goals. Under his leadership, Park University continues to strive for excellence and serve its community.
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Shane B. Smeed's commitment to education and self-development is evident in his pursuit of multiple degrees, including a Master of Business Administration degree, a Master of Arts degree in student personnel administration, and a doctoral degree in higher education administration. Beyond Park University, his dedication extends to career development, as he serves on various boards and holds volunteer leadership roles. [1][2][3]
As interim president, Smeed is committed to leading Park University with a strategic direction, overseeing operations, and ensuring its continued success. This commitment is reflective of his dedication to both education and career development. [1] [source]
