By Emily Jenkins, Staff Writer
When given the opportunity at a faith-based institution like the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Emily Smith left her life in Alaska to answer her profound sense of calling to serve those with diverse learning needs.
Smith, with a doctorate in educational leadership, serves as the new director of the Marek-Smith Center for Teacher Preparation at UMHB this August 2025.
“I believe wholeheartedly that I was led here to serve, to teach and to support our pre-service [student] teachers and the broader community,” Smith said, “It’s a privilege to step into a role at UMHB where faith and professional excellence walk hand in hand.”
Smith said that the entire faculty and staff have been amazing about making her feel welcome and that she has everything she needs.
“Moving from Alaska to Belton was certainly a major change for my family and me. However, from our very first day, we have felt truly at home,” Smith said.
Smith grew up in a family of educators including classroom teachers, a speech language pathologist, and college professors, which helped instill a commitment to the field of education.
“Throughout my career as a special education teacher, education diagnostician [where her role is to assess a student’s needs] and program director, I have followed both my heart and my commitment to the field of education.”
Smith feels she gained the skills, faith and perspective needed to serve effectively as director from past preparation as a classroom teacher, university professor, grant writer and leader.
“My experience has allowed me to understand the challenges and hopes of students, families and educators,” Smith said.
As a professor, Smith is able to teach pre-service teachers strategies, communication and how to work with families and students with disabilities.
As director, she also is proactively concerned about maintaining consistency at the Marek-Smith Center for returning students with disabilities, and desires for the students to have a smooth transition under directorship so the Marek-Smith Center is “still home.”
“My vision is for the Marek-Smith Center to be recognized as the premier center for special education teaching in Texas, known not only for academic excellence but also for the compassion and faith that guide our work.”
As well as her past experience, Smith’s community service for students with disabilities has helped prepare her in her role as director. She coached basketball and bowling for young adults in the Special Olympics. She also has been involved in assisting people with intellectual disabilities through The Arc and has taught Sunday school at her church.
If interested in studying special education, Smith invites students to come and talk to her, take a tour, research classes and discover their interests.
For more information about the Marek-Smith Center for Teacher Preparation visit: www.umhb.edu/marek-smith-center
