PSU Welcomes New Executive Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Portland State University announces the appointment of Dr. Bruce Smith as the Executive Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, a new role within the office of the President.

Smith brings more than two decades of experience in inclusive leadership in the private and public sectors, and within K-12 and higher education. Most recently, he served as a Program Manager at TriMet where he designed and led the implementation of its first Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access initiative and cultivated community relationships. He has also held impactful roles at small colleges and flagship institutions across California, Arizona, Colorado and Oregon, where he was the Dean of Students at Reed College.

In his new role, Smith will focus on developing and implementing comprehensive strategies to advance a culture of fairness, belonging and respectful dialogue across the PSU community. He will serve as a principal advisor to the President and senior leadership on all matters related to fostering a campus culture where all individuals feel valued, respected and empowered to thrive.

"I am looking forward to working with Dr. Smith in this new role to guide the alignment between our mission to serve learners from all backgrounds with the lived experience of students and employees at Portland State,” said PSU President Ann Cudd. “His energy, experience and dedication to leading with purpose makes him an ideal strategic partner for Portland State.”

Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts in American Civilization from Brown University; a Master’s of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from University of Southern California; and a Ph.D. in Education in Language, Literacy & Culture from UC Berkeley. He is certified in Project Management and Restorative Justice, and as a Crucial Conversations Facilitator.

Smith begins his new role on August 3.