John Smithgall
Assistant Dean CLA
John Smithgall
Assistant Dean CLA
Education
BA, Roberts Wesleyan College; MS, University of Rochester
Bio
John Smithgall currently serves as the assistant dean of student services in the College of Liberal Arts (COLA). In his role, he serves as the COLA honors advocate and program director for the liberal arts exploration program. In addition, he oversees COLA recruitment, academic advising, class scheduling, student events and creating an inclusive and welcoming community experience for students.
John holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Roberts Wesleyan College and a master’s degree in higher education leadership from the University of Rochester. John is an active member of the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) and the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA). He’s made multiple presentations at annual meetings on the topics of student success and implementing technical solutions in higher education.
Currently Teaching
In the News
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April 29, 2024
![an arial image from a drone captures students walking between buildings in their way to class.]()
RIT and UR partner on fast-track grad degrees in education and counseling
The Rochester Business Journal speaks with John Smithgall, assistant dean in the College of Liberal Arts, about the positive impact this partnership will bring to students. (This content may require a subscription to view.)
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April 23, 2024
![a drone view of the main artery of campus shows students walking to class on a sunny day.]()
RIT and UR partner to create accelerated graduate degree pathways for education and counseling students
RIT’s College of Liberal Arts and University of Rochester’s Warner School of Education have established new 3+2 and 4+1 admissions agreements, providing RIT undergraduate students with expedited pathways to launch their careers in teaching, higher education, or counseling. These agreements streamline the process for eligible students to earn both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees within a five-year timeframe.
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May 3, 2023
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First students transition to law school as part of 3+3 program
RIT’s College of Liberal Arts partners with Syracuse University’s College of Law to offer an accelerated 3+3 law program. Students complete both a bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor degree in six years as opposed to the traditional seven-year timeline.
Featured Work
Honors Program Perks: Career insights, community, and connections.
John Smithgall
Making the transition from high school to college studies can feel like a big leap in and of itself, so when you’re invited to join the honors program, too, will it be too much? That’s a question...