Southern Adventist University welcomes Rachel Williams-Smith, PhD, as the new dean of the School of Journalism and Communication. Williams-Smith comes to Southern from Andrews University, where she served for four years—most recently as graduate program director of the Communication Department. She has 19 years of teaching experience and eight years of overlapping management experience at the university level.

“We are delighted that Rachel Williams-Smith is joining our campus family,” said President David Smith, PhD. “Rachel has had considerable administrative experience at a number of levels. The communication faculty are excited about her and believe that her enthusiasm, knowledge of the communication field, creativity, and effective leadership style will strengthen the position of the communication and journalism programs for the future.”

In addition to teaching, Williams-Smith is a life lessons coach who enjoys presenting both in person and on radio and television, speaking openly about her faith and experiences in order to help others grow. Recently she authored the autobiographical book Born Yesterday: The True Story of a Girl Born in the 20th Century but Raised in the 19th, sharing her journey from growing up in extreme circumstances to leading a balanced, vibrant life.

Williams-Smith is married to Carl Winston Smith, a professional tailor, and together they have four grown children: Chris, Sharon, Sheryl, and Wesley. They also have three grandchildren.

She has a PhD in Communication from Regent University, an MA in English: Professional Writing from the University of Cincinnati, and a BS in Language Arts from Oakwood University. Her latest academic endeavor is an EdD in Educational Leadership and Management from Capella University, which she will finish this summer. She assumes the role of dean from Linda Crumley, PhD, who is moving to Walla Walla University.