The Washington Center (TWC) mourns the passing of Michael B. Smith, M.Ed., president from 2004-2016 and a 40-year employee, joining TWC in 1976 just after our founding. Alongside founders Bill and Sheila Burke, Mike helped ignite the vision that is The Washington Center, growing the organization from supporting 300 students that first year to more than 2,000 students annually by the time he retired in 2016.
A life-long leader and advocate for others, Mike worked as a student counselor and resource teacher in the Norwood, Massachusetts public schools prior to joining TWC. He also served the U.S. Navy in the Vietnam war. Mike’s strong belief in higher education and desire for students to have transformative experiences was his life’s work. In recognition of this work, which impacted the lives of thousands of students, Mike was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Public Service from Ohio Northern University in 2010.
In every way, Mike embodied all that The Washington Center stands for, guiding our mission and creating stronger futures as a leader, educator and champion of access, equity and opportunity.
Dr. Susan Pannullo, Chair of the Board of Trustees.
“In every way, Mike embodied all that The Washington Center stands for, guiding our mission and creating stronger futures as a leader, educator and champion of access, equity and opportunity,” said Dr. Susan Pannullo, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Mike was a beloved friend, colleague, and so much more to the TWC community. He inspired us to move to greatness and achieve excellence, leaving a positive and enduring mark on The Washington Center. His memory will live on in our hearts and in our work, with gratitude and respect.”
During his tenure at The Washington Center, Mike served in many leadership roles and was instrumental in growing the organization. His strategic leadership helped increase access for students and enrollment, ensured mission impact for higher education and employers, and created robust partnerships.
Mike guided the expansion of TWC’s international community, including adding a U.S.-China Bilateral Trade Program. His leadership helped solidify TWC’s role as an influencer and thought leader in Washington, D.C., by making high-profile additions to the Board of Trustees, including former Congressman, House Majority Leader and presidential candidate Dick Gephardt. Mike also established a Council of Presidents composed of prominent leaders of affiliated colleges and universities and an International Advisory Board composed of ambassadors and other global leaders to provide counsel as TWC expanded its global reach. Furthermore, Mike's impact extended beyond board appointments to cultivating connections for various programs, such as the Mineta-Simpson Leaders series.
Mike was the definition of a servant leader. His vision and commitment over his career helped guide The Washington Center to international prominence. His passionate focus on high-quality programs and access remain pivotal to our work today.
Kimberly Churches, President of The Washington Center.
“Mike was the definition of a servant leader. His vision and commitment over his career helped guide The Washington Center to international prominence. His passionate focus on high-quality programs and access remain pivotal to our work today,” remarked Kimberly Churches, President of The Washington Center.
One of the many ways Mike’s work will live on at TWC is in the important role he had in establishing our living and working community at the “Michael B. Smith Residential and Academic Facility” in the NOMA neighborhood of D.C. This building is the heart of The Washington Center and his leadership will forever be remembered.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, the staff, and The Washington Center community, Mike Smith will be greatly missed. Our hearts go out to Mike’s beloved wife Barbara, daughter Gillian Mullins and her husband John, son Doug Smith and his wife Sarah, grandchildren Keaveny, Reid, Quinn and Lilla; as well as his brother Eric Smith and sister, Andrea Smith, along with his extended family and many friends and colleagues.
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