Dr. LaTonia Collins Smith

2023 Inspirational Leader of the Year

Dr. Collins Smith is the 21st President of Harris-Stowe State University – the only historically black college and university in the St. Louis region, and one of only two in the state of Missouri. She is the first woman to serve the University in this role. She has more than 25 years of progressive leadership experience and an extensive administrative and program development background. Dr. Collins Smith began her career in higher education at Harris-Stowe State University in 2010 and has served the University in several leadership roles.

Dr. Collins Smith serves as chair of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Statewide Celebration Commission of Missouri and co-chair of the Concordance First Chance Campaign. In addition, she serves as a member of community and national boards. Dr. Collins Smith was instrumental in founding the University of Central Missouri Black Alumni Organization, is a charter member of Black Women College Presidents and Chancellors, and is a Silver Life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

She earned her doctorate from Maryville University in St. Louis, and master degrees from Saint Louis University.

A story that illustrates Dr. Collins Smith’s leadership and how it impact others is from spring 2023 when St. Louis Public Schools held their middle school promotion ceremonies at Harris-Stowe. Dr. Collins Smith was in attendance for one such ceremony and learned the story of an 8th grade young man who was so determined to be in attendance that he walked miles to his ceremony after mapping out his route on paper the evening before. Dr. Collins Smith immediately recognized the courage, dedication, and fortitude of this young gentleman. She sprang into action and decided to award this determined student a full ride scholarship to attend Harris-Stowe State University. This is an example of a true leader who sees potential and lifts up others. By practicing this type of leadership, Dr. Collins Smith is changing the lives of the students in the St. Louis region and state; in the process she inspires all of us to do all we can in service to others.