Smith, Leo F.

Dr. Leo F. Smith came to the Mechanics Institute (a precursor to RIT), as a graduate student on a fellowship to continue his research for his PhD in education. Immediately after graduation, he was offered a position with the Institute and accepted. Smith would work closely with President Mark Ellingson, and had considerable influence in the development of RIT into the institution it is today. Smith created and directed the Counseling Center (1942-1953), was Dean of Instruction (1953-1960), and the first Vice President for Academic Administration (1960-1969). In 1969 he was appointed Executive Assitant to the President, and directed academic planning for the new Henrietta campus. All told, Leo Smith worked for the Institute for thirty-three years, from 1939 to his retirement in 1972. Leo Smith died June 25, 1996 at age 89.

From the description of Leo Smith papers, 1941-1973. (RIT Library). WorldCat record id: 768489201