Founded in 1889, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania, a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, has grown from a college focusing exclusively on teacher education to a university offering a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The hallmark of the University is a vibrant curriculum provided by talented and dedicated faculty whose primary vision is to help our students achieve their destiny.

In the last six years, Slippery Rock University has undergone rapid change including earning more than a dozen new academic program accreditations and being named among the top five "Best Value" public institutions in the nation as well as one of Princeton Review's "Mid-Atlantic Great Schools to Consider." Enrollment has increased to an all-time record high while admission standards have tightened, more academically talented students enrolled, student retention expanded, and the graduation rate of students significantly improved. In the last three years, the University has been awarded four national awards for its success in enrollment, retention and enhancements of academic quality.

As the University looks to the future, a new $14.5 million science and technology building was recently constructed and the campus is completing a $120 million renovation and replacement of student housing. Renovation projects will begin in 2008 for math and science programs as well as a refurbished dining hall. For the future, the campus plan includes a new student union and performing arts center. The campus continues to undergo renovations and the infusion of cutting edge technology to remain ranked among the more sophisticated teaching and learning environments in the country.

Dr. Robert M. Smith has led these changes as the 15th President of Slippery Rock University. Dr. Smith came to the University in 1999 as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and served as interim president in 2002, appointed president in May, 2004. He has focused his career on improving the learning environment for students. He has received two national awards for teaching excellence as well as the selection as a "First-Year Student Advocate" by the National Resource Center for the First-Year Experience and Students in Transition.

Dr. Smith is a nationally recognized specialist in executive leadership development. He is the senior faculty member in four executive programs offered at other universities. He is the only Kansan to have been selected as a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services fellow. Active in community and economics development, he has received the Preceptor Award from the Community Leadership Association, Tennessee's Outstanding Achievement Award from the governor, and recognition for rural economic revitalization from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Active as a community volunteer, Dr. Smith serves on the Board of Trustees for Butler County Community College, Leadership Pittsburgh, Inc. (having served for two years as chair); the Butler County Community Development Corporation, Butler Health Systems Board of Directors, past president of the Butler Rotary Club; and a member of the executive committee of Slippery Rock Economic Development, Inc.  He also holds a Congressional appointment to the Department of Defense's Army ROTC Advisory Committee.  He and his wife, Ramona, have two children: David, residing in Knoxville, Tennessee, and Angela, residing in Nashville, Tennessee.