The WestStar Leadership Program at the University of Tennessee at Martin announced Aug. 30 that Jennifer Black Smiley is the program’s new assistant director.
“I am thrilled to accept the assistant director role with WestStar Leadership,” Smiley said. “I am committed to the program’s mission and look forward to contributing to its growth.”
Chancellor Yancy Freeman Sr. was pleased to have Smiley as the WestStar assistant director.
“Jennifer Black Smiley’s promotion to assistant director of WestStar Leadership is a testament to her unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership,” he said. “Since joining the organization in 2021, she has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to drive excellence and innovation.
“Her track record as program manager, overseeing conferences and special events, has laid a solid foundation for her new role. I am confident that Jennifer will continue to inspire and lead with the same commitment and vision she has always shown.”
University Chief of Staff and WestStar Executive Director Jake Bynum was also glad to add Smiley’s experience to WestStar administration.
“Jennifer Black Smiley’s ascent to assistant director of WestStar Leadership marks a significant milestone in her impressive journey with WestStar,” he said. “Her exceptional performance as program manager has been instrumental in the success of WestStar.
“With her extensive experience and passion for leadership, I am excited to see how she will further elevate our programs and contribute to our mission.”
Smiley succeeds Virginia Grimes, who retired in July after 34 years of service to the WestStar Leadership Program.
The Virginia Grimes WestStar Leadership Endowment to support the WestStar program was announced by Freeman at her July 27 retirement reception. Also at that reception, Bynum announced the Virginia Grimes WestTeach Leadership Award to recognize leadership and dedication among members of WestStar’s WestTeach leadership-development program for K-12 teachers.
The WestStar Leadership Program was founded at UT Martin in 1989 and is the state’s oldest and largest regional leadership program. Since the program began, it has had 974 people take part.
The program equips regional leaders with new skills and knowledge designed to impact the educational, economic and social development of West Tennessee. The program also provides members with a growing network of community-minded people committed to serving the area.
WestStar Leadership educates, engages and empowers a diverse group of community-minded individuals to collaborate, lead and serve to facilitate positive change in West Tennessee.
Each year, a class of about 30 people from around West Tennessee take part in workshops, business tours and other programs to develop and broaden their leadership skills.
Participants also become part of a growing network of other leaders who, through mutual support and assistance, shape the future of West Tennessee. WestStar is committed to advancing the regional and global community through outreach and community service and public service.
Recruiting for the WestStar Class of 2025 has begun. Those interested in participating should email weststar@utm.edu or visit the WestStar Leadership Program page at www.utm.edu.
