Program Details
The Next Generation of Solutions: Employer Collaboration with Colleges & Universities
In this session, Dr. Smothers will enlighten attendees on how colleges and universities contribute to workforce success and how partnerships with employers assist higher education institutions with ensuring meaningful employment opportunities for their students.
Key Objectives:
- Discuss how colleges can partner with employers to address burning employment issues, including emerging and unaddressed needs.
- Learn how to align the institution’s strengths with the needs of employers
- Learn how employers can provide meaningful employment opportunities for students.
Dr. Roderick Smothers Sr.
President at Philander Smith College
Dr. Roderick L. Smothers, Sr. has served as the 14th President of Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas since January 2015. Since assuming the helm of the United Methodist Church affiliated, private historically Black institution, his innovative and progressive leadership has fueled the Philander Forward Movement, a new vision and ten-year long-range plan and strategy designed to return the College to its historical national prominence and international acclaim.
During his tenure as President, the institution has realized record enrollment growth, implemented new market-driven academic programs and initiatives, and registered significant fundraising results. In 2019, the United Negro College Fund recognized Philander Smith College as the fastest growing institution amongst its peers, and it has also emerged as the fastest growing private institution in the state of Arkansas.
A native of Louisiana, President Smothers holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, a Master’s Degree in Public Administration (with a concentration in Higher Education Administration), and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, Research and Counseling, all from Louisiana State University. He proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Air Force Reserves and saw active-duty during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm.
Please Note: Speakers and topics are subject to change without notice.