John Smithgall
Assistant Dean CLA
John Smithgall
Assistant Dean CLA
Education
BA, Roberts Wesleyan College; MS, University of Rochester
Bio
John Smithgall currently serves as the assistant dean of student services in the College of Liberal Arts (COLA). In his role, he serves as the COLA honors advocate and program director for the liberal arts exploration program. In addition, he oversees COLA recruitment, academic advising, class scheduling, student events and creating an inclusive and welcoming community experience for students.
John holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Roberts Wesleyan College and a master’s degree in higher education leadership from the University of Rochester. John is an active member of the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) and the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA). He’s made multiple presentations at annual meetings on the topics of student success and implementing technical solutions in higher education.
Currently Teaching
In the News
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May 3, 2023
First students transition to law school as part of 3+3 program
RIT’s College of Liberal Arts partners with Syracuse University’s College of Law to offer an accelerated 3+3 law program. Students complete both a bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor degree in six years as opposed to the traditional seven-year timeline.
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September 9, 2022
College of Liberal Arts introduces Liberal Arts Multidisciplinary Scholars program
The Liberal Arts Multidisciplinary Scholars program, which is being introduced this fall, gives financial support to students in STEM majors who are interested in adding a second major from RIT's College of Liberal Arts.
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April 27, 2022
Honors students spend spring break networking in Washington, DC
After a two-year pandemic hiatus, the spring break trip for honors students in the College of Liberal Arts has returned in 2022. Ten students, accompanied by administrators from the college and university, spent the better part of a week in Washington, DC during spring break, networking with alumni, seeing the sights and gaining tips on possible internships and careers related to their degrees in liberal arts.