Jessi L. Smith

Dr. Jessi L. Smith is passionate about advancing the field of social psychology through her innovative research and dedicated teaching. She holds a distinguished position as a Professor at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS), where she also serves as the Associate Vice Chancellor for Research. Dr. Smith's academic journey began at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a B.A. in Psychology in 1997. She further honed her expertise by earning an M.S. in Psychology with a specialization in Social Psychology in 2000, followed by a Ph.D. in the same field from the University of Utah in 2002. Throughout her career, Dr. Smith has been committed to exploring the intricate dynamics of social behavior and cognition. Her research interests lie at the intersection of social identity, motivation, and the impact of societal norms on individual behavior. She has contributed significantly to the understanding of how social contexts influence personal and group identities, and her work has been published in numerous prestigious journals. In her role as Associate Vice Chancellor for Research, Dr. Smith is instrumental in fostering a vibrant research community at UCCS. She is dedicated to supporting faculty and students in their scholarly pursuits, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhancing the university's research infrastructure. Her leadership is characterized by a commitment to inclusivity and innovation, ensuring that UCCS remains at the forefront of academic excellence. Dr. Smith is also a passionate educator, known for her engaging teaching style and her ability to inspire students to think critically about social issues. She is deeply invested in mentoring the next generation of psychologists, guiding them to develop their research skills and encouraging them to pursue their academic and professional goals with confidence. Beyond her academic and administrative roles, Dr. Smith is actively involved in professional organizations related to social psychology. She frequently presents her research at national and international conferences, contributing to the ongoing dialogue in her field. Her dedication to social psychology extends beyond the classroom and the laboratory, as she strives to apply her findings to real-world challenges, promoting social justice and equity. Dr. Jessi L. Smith's career is marked by a profound commitment to understanding and improving the human condition through the lens of social psychology. Her contributions to research, education, and university leadership continue to make a significant impact on the academic community and beyond.