Buffy Smith

Buffy Smith is the Eugene and Mary Frey Endowed Chair and Dean of the Dougherty Family College at the University of St. Thomas. She also serves as a Professor of Sociology. With over 18 years of experience, her research focuses on racial and class disparities in higher education, mentoring strategies for underrepresented students, and institutional equity. Dr. Smith earned her B.A. in Sociology from Marquette University, and her M.S. and Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She joined the University of St. Thomas faculty in 2004, achieving tenure in 2010 and promotion to full professor in 2016. Prior to her deanship, she chaired the Sociology department and served as founding associate dean of academics at the Dougherty Family College.

Her work has shaped the educational model of the Dougherty Family College, emphasizing student success through understanding institutional cultures. Key publications include her book Mentoring At-Risk Students through the Hidden Curriculum of Higher Education and articles in journals like African-American Research Perspectives and Equity & Excellence in Education.

Dr. Smith has received multiple awards and grants recognizing her contributions to diversity and equity in higher education. Her research bridges policy and practice, addressing systemic barriers faced by marginalized student populations.