Melissa Sturm-Smith

Melissa Sturm-Smith is the Associate Provost, Academic Excellence & Student Success at Drake University. Melissa has over 20 years of experience in higher education administration, student affairs, and programming.

Melissa started their career in 1998 as the Assistant Director, Student Activities and Leadership Programs at the University of Miami. In this role, they advised the campus programming board and supervised the distribution and management of a $230,000 programming budget. Melissa also negotiated and prepared entertainment and service contracts, consulted with professional staff and student groups, and developed and implemented an ongoing training program for the campus programming board.

In 2000, they became the Director of Student Activities at Florida International University. In this role, they oversaw a wide range of student activities, including orientation, leadership development, Greek life, clubs and organizations, special events, and more. Melissa also served as a liaison to the Board of Trustees and other university administrators.

In 2004, they became the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs at the University of South Florida. In this role, they were responsible for all aspects of student life, including housing, dining, student conduct, health and wellness, Orientation and First-Year Experience, Parent and Family Services, Career Services, Student Activities, and more.

In their current role as Associate Provost, Academic Excellence & Student Success at Drake University, they provide leadership for a wide range of academic support services and programs that promote student success. Melissa also serves as a liaison to the Board of Trustees and other university administrators.

Melissa Sturm-Smith has a Doctor of Philosophy from Iowa State University in Educational Leadership and Policy with a focus on Social Justice. Melissa also has a Master of Arts in Educational Administration and Student Affairs from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University. Melissa is certified by EAB in Student Success Innovation Council.

Melissa Sturm-Smith works with Anne Kremer - Dean, Admission, Craig Owens - Director, Center for Teaching Excellence, and Annique Kiel - Executive Director, Global Engagement & International Programs. Their manager is Sue Mattison, Provost.