News

Baker College of Cadillac regents have appointed Kelly Smith as Cadillac campus president. Transition to the presidency position will begin the end of November 2010. She succeeds Robert Van Dellen, Ph.D., who will officially retire January 31, 2011, after a 20-year Baker College career.

“In addition to an in-depth knowledge of the Baker College system, Kelly has the educational experience and leadership skills that are essential to the campus president position,” said F. James Cummins, Baker College president and CEO. “We are delighted that she has returned to Baker College, and has accepted the challenge to lead our Cadillac campus.”

Smith joins Baker College of Cadillac from the Corunna Public Schools, where she was the Corunna High School principal for seven years and the Elsa Meyer Elementary School principal for four years. Smith’s extensive career also includes four years as the Baker College of Owosso director of career services and two years as a part-time early childhood education instructor at Baker’s Owosso campus. In addition, she taught at Doyle Knight Elementary School in Durand and, from 1984 until 1989, was the payroll/transportation supervisor for the Durand Area Schools.

Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Saginaw Valley State University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Eastern Michigan University. Working toward a Ph.D. in educational leadership from Michigan State University, she is currently in the dissertation writing stage of the process. Anticipated completion date is June 2011.

“Baker College is a progressive and visionary organization with strong leadership,” said Smith. “I look forward to once again being part of the Baker College system, becoming ensconced in the Cadillac community, and carrying forward all the exceptional goals and programs initiated by Dr. Van Dellen.”