Former YSU provost hired at Alabama university

FLORENCE, Ala. (WKBN) — Brien Smith, former provost and special assistant to the president at Youngstown State University, will soon take up a new position at the University of North Alabama.

Smith was named provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at YSU in 2019. More recently he was tapped for the role of special assistant to the president to assist new YSU President Bill Johnson in January 2024.

He is set to start with UNA as provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs around June 1, according to a release from the university. Smith replaces Dr. Ross Alexander, who served in the role until his departure in July of 2023.

“What attracted me to UNA is quite a list, actually,” Smith said in a statement. “First of all, UNA has its roots as a normal school. I have served as faculty and in administration at two institutions that began as state normal schools, so I knew UNA’s DNA is deeply rooted in a commitment to excellence in teaching and student learning. Also, while many institutions promote their student-centric culture, it is clear to me that UNA actually delivers on that promise. Finally, I was looking for a place that has a strong sense of family, and, at UNA, you feel that the moment you step foot on campus.”

In addition to his time at Youngstown State University, Smith has also served in academic leadership at Indiana State University and Ball State University.

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