DU Oral History - Dwight Smith Interview Highlights

Dr. Dwight M. Smith joined the University of Denver (DU) in 1972 as a professor and chair of the chemistry department. He served as vice chancellor of academic affairs for the University of Denver in 1982 and 1983 and was named DU's chancellor in January of 1984.

In this interview Dwight describes the dire financial situation faced by the University of Denver leading up to his appointment as Chancellor. He discusses the financial effects of university construction projects, the acquisition of the Colorado Women's College (CWC), declining enrollment and the simultaneous economic recession.

Dwight reflects on the difficult actions he and the board of trustees took to restructure the university including faculty layoffs and program terminations.

He discusses the development and implementation of a cutting-edge core curriculum, the adoption of a provost model of operation, a renewed focus on teaching and improving the undergraduate experience. He reflects on transformative gifts including DU's first million dollar gift received from one individual and the significant increase in alumni giving during his tenure as Chancellor.