Dr. Monica M. Smith was appointed the inaugural Vice President for Inclusion and Belonging at the University of Richmond in July 2024. In this role, she leads university-wide efforts to cultivate a more inclusive, equitable, and welcoming community where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.

Prior to her current role, Dr. Smith served as Associate Vice President for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at the Universities of Wisconsin System Administration. There, she provided strategic leadership across thirteen campuses, advancing systemic change and equity-focused initiatives.

A lifelong champion for diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, accessibility, and justice, Dr. Smith is widely respected for her collaborative and compassionate approach. She has offered her expertise through national presentations and consultations, including with the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE).

She earned her doctorate in Clinical Social Work and a master’s in social work from the University of Pennsylvania, and a bachelor’s degree in social work from Eastern University.