Dr. Colleen A. Smith, Coconino Community College President

LEADERSHIP

@7000ft Advancing

a Strong Community

Dr. Colleen A. Smith, President, Coconino Community College, has worked in her industry for 38 years. A passionate advocate for community education, Dr. Smith loves living in northern Arizona and is inspired every day by Coconino Community College faculty, staff, and students, who she says give her the best motivation she could ever have.

Photo credit: Larry Hendricks

DR. COLLEEN A. SMITH

PRESIDENT/ COCONINO COMMUNITY COLLEGE

2800 S. Lone Tree Road Flagstaff, AZ 86005 | (928) 527-1222

WHY ARE YOU IN YOUR BUSINESS OR PROFESSION?

Because I believe so strongly in the mission of the two-year college and the emphasis on community, service, and continued learning for life.

HOW LONG HAS YOUR COMPANY BEEN IN BUSINESS OR HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THIS PROFESSION?

CCC was formed in 1991 and has been in business 28 years. I have worked in community colleges for 38 years.

IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WOULD YOU CHANGE YOUR PROFESSIONAL PATH? IF SO, HOW?

No- absolutely not! I have learned so much from working with students, faculty, staff, public officials, and community members at four different community colleges where I have served that I would not change a thing.

FROM WHOM DO YOU SEEK BUSINESS ADVICE?

Colleagues and mentors in higher education.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE JUST STARTING OUT IN YOUR PROFESSION?

Listen and learn from everyone, be true to yourself, and always serve with integrity and compassion.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL BRAND? PLEASE EXPLAIN.

My role is to be an ambassador and an advocate for education with an emphasis on community. In my daily work, it is important that I am 100% engaged in demonstrating

that the Community College is integral to the fabric of the community.

TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS?

A strong work ethic, taught by my parents, that values education and a wonderfully supportive husband who is truly my partner in life.

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR FUN?

Spend time with family and friends, read, write, and enjoy the outdoors.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

Our students- when you see them overcome challenges, work hard, and succeed, it is absolutely the most inspiring motivation you can have. I’m also inspired by the dedicated faculty and staff that choose to work at community colleges and give so much of themselves to our students.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO LIVE AND STAY IN FLAGSTAFF?

I came to Flagstaff because of Coconino Community College, and all that it has to offer. I found that Northern Arizona is filled with people who value service to others and who have been very warm and welcoming to my husband and to me. It is all about the people—that is why I want to stay in Flagstaff.

WHAT IS MORE IMPORTANT TO YOU TODAY THAN IT WAS 10 YEARS AGO?

Every minute I get to spend with loved ones.

WHAT MANTRA OR RULE DO YOU STRIVE TO LIVE BY?

Always assume that people have good intentions and are acting with integrity. You may, at times, find that not to be true, but always expect the best of others and

of yourself by showing compassion. My husband and I have a shared mission in life— to create and contribute with compassion.

WHAT IS WORSE THAN FAILURE?

Worse than failure is not taking on a challenge or giving your best every day because of fear.

WHERE DO YOU HOPE TO BE IN 10 YEARS?

Enjoying Northern Arizona—this amazing place we call home. That means appreciating the wonderful people, the diverse cultures, and the beautiful surroundings this place has to offer.

GREATER FLAGSTAFF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | AUGUST 2019 | VOL 5, ISSUE 8 | @7000ft

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