معرفی
AJ Smith is an Instructor of Languages, Literature and Mass Communication and Lecturer of Speech at the Colorado Mesa University Montrose Campus, where she has taught for over 20 years. She previously dedicated 38 years to teaching and coaching at Delta High School and Montrose High School, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to education.
Her educational background includes advanced degrees in educational leadership and language and communication. These are listed as:
- MA, Educational Leadership – Adams State University
- MA, Language and Communication – Regis University
- BA, Language Arts and French – Western Colorado University
- AS, Recreational Sports – Colorado State University
Smith's research and teaching interests span communication studies, speech, theater arts, English, French, and student-centered pedagogy. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking and individual learning styles, inspired by her belief: 'I cannot teach anybody anything; I can only make them think.'
While no publications are listed, her professional focus appears rooted in applied education, communication, and youth development rather than traditional academic research.
She has served in educational leadership roles, including as a former board member of the Colorado Education Association Higher Ed and as an active member of the Colorado Education Initiative and National Education Association Higher Education Council. She was also a Children's Advocate at Tri-County Resource Center for 6 years and a crisis advocate for 14 years, and worked as a life coach at the Brown Juvenile Center.
Smith has advised and mentored numerous students through her teaching and coaching roles in speech, theater, and athletics, though no formal advisees are listed. She has not received any scientific awards mentioned in the text.
She is involved in community and educational teams, particularly through advocacy and youth support programs, reflecting a strong commitment to student well-being and holistic development.
