THE
PROVOST AND VICE
PRESIDENT
Dr . Ellen D . Smiley was born in Homer , Louisiana . At an early age she began singing and playing piano . As a young performer , she and her sister performed concerts throughout the United States and recorded several gospel selections . While in high school , she worked at the Claiborne Parish Clerk of Court Office and became the first black Deputy Clerk of Court for Claiborne Parish , Louisiana .
After graduating from Homer High School a number of universities sought Smiley because of her academic record and her musical gifts . Her parents , the late Charlie J . Smiley and the late Etta H . Smiley – both Gramblinites , encouraged her to attend Grambling State University . Smiley believes that this was one of the best decisions she ever made . She earned the baccalaureate and master ’ s degrees from Grambling State University and the doctorate from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in Higher Education Administration .
She was recruited to Grambling State University to assist with the development of the Honors College in 1990 , but did not transition from her job until 1991 . Over the span of her career , Smiley has served in many capacities in addition to her work with the honors college . She has served as the Assistant Dean of the Honors College , Assistant Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences , and Executive Assistant to the President . She is a member of the President ’ s Executive Council , the University ’ s Budget and Priorities Committee , and numerous other university committees . Dr . Smiley also served as President of the Grambling State University Faculty Senate for a number of years . In this capacity , she assisted with the establishment and dissemination of faculty merit increases and drafted the document “ The Good , The Bad , and The Ugly ” which assisted with the justification for building the new performing arts building , known as the Conrad Hutchinson , Jr . Performing Arts Center .
Currently , she serves as Dean of the Earl Lester Cole Honors College , Associate Professor of Education , where she teaches for the Educational Leadership Program , and Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs .
Dr . Smiley was a member of the inaugural class of Kellogg Fellows , a program that prepares university administrators for service as university vice presidents or presidents . Her professors during the year-long Kellogg fellowship included Dr . Fred Humphries , Dr . Marie McDemmond , Dr . Portia Shields , Dr . William DeLauder , Dr . Joseph B . Johnson , and other current and former Historically Black College and University presidents .
Dr . Smiley has published book chapters , written grants , and served as a consultant and guest speaker for various educational institutions , alumni chapters , community organizations and churches . She continues to work to enhance opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students . Dr . Smiley is the President of the Louisiana Collegiate Honors Council ( LCHC ). She is married to Dr . Rory L . Bedford . They have 3 children – Joi , Prentiss , and Samantha .
Academic Viewbook Page 4