Meet Graziadio's Interim Dean

Biography

Dr. Smith, a distinguished member of the Pepperdine Graziadio faculty for over 20 years, serves as a professor of economics and the School’s Interim Dean. With more than two decades of experience in teaching, research, and academic leadership, he has had the privilege of instructing over 1,000 graduate and undergraduate students across nearly every program at Graziadio. His deep institutional knowledge and proven commitment to student success position him uniquely to guide the School during this transitional period, ensuring continuity in academic excellence and strategic priorities.

His leadership tenure at Pepperdine is extensive, having previously served as the School’s 8th dean, as well as senior associate dean and department chair. Beyond the university, Dr. Smith is an active contributor to the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the international accrediting body for business schools. In this capacity, he serves as a peer reviewer and mentor, and he has previously chaired the steering committee for the Associate Dean’s Affinity Group. These roles have provided him with a broad perspective on global business education and a track record of effective institutional governance.

Before transitioning into academia, Dr. Smith spent nearly a decade in the insurance industry, including seven years as a manager. This professional background brings valuable real-world business insight to his teaching and scholarship, allowing him to translate the complexities of economics into the language of business with succinct clarity. As a labor economist with an applied focus, his expertise spans compensation analysis, labor market dynamics, and economic loss. He frequently consults across various industries and serves as an expert witness in legal cases involving economic damages.

Dr. Smith’s research is widely published in both academic and practitioner journals, reaching audiences far beyond the classroom. Notably, his work on credit unions has been cited in arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court and in various state legislative hearings. He is also a trusted voice in the national and international media, offering expert commentary on economic issues for prominent outlets such as CNN, The New York Times, The London Times, the Los Angeles Times, and USA Today.

He holds a bachelor’s degree from Wheaton College in Illinois and earned both his master’s and doctoral degrees in economics from Michigan State University. In his current role as Interim Dean, Dr. Smith remains dedicated to advancing Graziadio’s mission to develop leaders of purpose while fostering an environment that prioritizes academic rigor and an exceptional student experience.