Smith to connect students, employers with CU programs in south Denver

Tony Smith thrives on helping students to reach their full potential. He also loves chatting with employers about their workforce needs. So he jumped at the chance to lead the University of Colorado's forward-thinking expansion into the south Denver region that's teeming with ambitious students and professionals as well as growing industries in need of skilled employees. This new challenge, after all, is perfectly suited to Smith's well-rounded talents—and high energy level.

Smith recently became executive director of CU's new classroom space at The Wildlife Experience in Parker. Smith, who holds a master's degree in student affairs leadership and is finishing his Ph.D. in education, has been director of the CU Denver Experiential Learning Center since 2010.

Smith honed his leadership skills by directing ELC's innovative programs and connecting students, faculty, businesses and community organizations.

CU identified the need for program offerings after conducting a market study of south Denver and interviewing leaders from the area's major employers and professional organizations. Home to a variety of engineering, finance and health care-related companies, the region will greatly benefit from CU programs starting this fall in The Wildlife Experience's 11,000 square feet of classroom and administrative space. CU's Anschutz Medical Campus and Denver Campus are leading the way with program offerings.

Class schedules and admissions information for various programs offered by CU Denver and CU Anschutz—in business, computer science, education, nursing and public health—will be announced in the coming weeks. Additional courses will be offered in subsequent semesters.

A nationally certified life and career coach, Smith works with people across the spectrum—students and working professionals—to develop life, career and transition strategies.