Adam A. Smith is a nationally-recognized higher education expert, motivational speaker, and Executive Director for University Academic Advising at the University of Kentucky. He is known for his work increasing college access, student belonging, and institutional success through equity-driven, student-centered approaches.
A first-generation college graduate and former AmeriCorps member, Adam is deeply committed to transforming systems that block educational opportunity. His career has included leadership roles at institutions across the country, where he’s helped launch new student success centers, raise retention and graduation rates, and train educators in culturally responsive advising and teaching. He has also served as Founding Director of the Upward Bound Program at Rock Valley College, Associate Head Football Coach, Dean of Students and Success, and adjunct faculty at Judson University. He was appointed Director of the Mayor’s Office of Education and Life-Long Learning in Rockford, IL, and later held leadership roles in student success at the University of Akron and the University of Alabama, where he helped launch Bama’s Capstone Center for Student Success.
Adam is a gifted storyteller who speaks with warmth, wisdom, and humor. His sessions are grounded in real experience and practical tools—and he has a rare ability to connect across students, faculty, staff, and leadership. Whether addressing educational equity, campus culture, or institutional transformation, Adam inspires audiences to reimagine what's possible and empowers them to lead with purpose.
Adam holds a B.A. in Pastoral Ministry from Concordia University and an M.Ed. in Educational Administration from National-Louis University, with additional graduate coursework at the University of Akron and University of Alabama. He and his wife Linda live in Lexington, Kentucky, and are proud parents and grandparents.
