PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — Sandra Smith, an accomplished leader with more than 25 years of experience in higher education, strategic consulting and private industry, has been appointed dean of Brown University’s School of Professional Studies, effective July 1, 2025.
As dean, Smith will oversee academic programs, operations, finances and staff for the School of Professional Studies. She will lead efforts to advance the school’s mission to create and deliver programs that empower learners at all career stages to transform themselves, their workplaces and the communities they serve.
Smith has served as interim dean of the school since January 2025. In a Thursday, May 29, campus message announcing her appointment as dean, Brown Provost Francis J. Doyle III said she has demonstrated adept leadership as interim dean with clear strategic vision, an inclusive leadership style and a deep understanding of Brown’s collaborative culture.
“Sandra brings a powerful combination of entrepreneurial thinking and academic rigor — qualities that will be essential as the School of Professional Studies aims to expand its reach and impact,” Doyle wrote. “She sees the school evolving into a leading hub for lifelong learning, with offerings that span certificates to master’s degrees and meet students where they are in their personal and professional journeys.”
Reporting to Doyle, Smith will serve as a member of the president’s cabinet, the president’s executive committee and the provost’s leadership group of senior academic deans. Her responsibilities will include developing and managing a growing portfolio of degree and non-degree programs, expanding access to new learner populations, and overseeing initiatives to support students and employees. In addition, she will support other Brown schools and departments in expanding master’s programs by providing enrollment management, student services and career support resources.
As interim dean, Smith helped to develop three new online master’s programs, strengthened collaboration with faculty across academic departments and laid the groundwork for the school to grow, with a strong commitment to academic quality and fiscal responsibility. Prior to becoming interim dean, she helped to establish and grow the school’s master’s in technology leadership program and launched the non-credit portfolio at Brown in her previous role as senior associate dean for executive education.
