Julie Smith, Ph.D.

As an undergraduate student at HLGU in 1985, Smith majored in early childhood education and social studies. Now, 35 years later, she’s come full circle. After accepting a position at HLGU in 2020, she serves as an adjunct professor, teaching education to future teachers.

Her initial work in education began as the director and lead teacher of a faith-based private preschool in Bowling Green, Missouri. Afterwards, she took a regular education teaching position in various Missouri public schools, teaching kindergarten through third grade for 24 years. Since then, she has obtained experience teaching undergraduate courses at Central Methodist University, teaching graduate and undergraduate courses at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (TX), and teaching early childhood education at the University of Missouri-Columbia.

Smith’s early connection to HLGU, life-long dedication to teaching and education, and her passion for the Lord, made her a perfect fit to join the HLGU’s faculty.

“I want to teach students how to become future teachers with an equal emphasis on Christian principles as there is on academic content and implementation strategies,” says Smith. “I believe the first step to becoming a highly-qualified teacher is committing your life to Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of your life. True wisdom and knowledge comes from God.”

Dr. Smith loves teaching and working together with her church family. She has taught Sunday school, Bible school, and led in children’s church for many years. She also enjoys gardening, walking, running, and working out with free weights. Spending time with her three children and four grandchildren is the most treasured use of her free time.