Stephanie Smith

CEO, ISU Foundation

Stephanie Smith is the CEO of the Idaho State University Foundation. Smith joined Idaho State University in January 2025 and leads the university's advancement work, including fundraising, alumni engagement, donor relations, foundation operations, and philanthropic strategy. Her role includes oversight of the ISU Foundation, the ISU Alumni Association, and KISU Radio. She also serves on both the University Council and Administrative Council, helping guide institutional planning, strategic priorities, and university-wide initiatives.

Before coming to Idaho State, Smith served as Associate Vice President for Advancement at Northern Arizona University. Prior to her work in higher education, Smith held leadership roles in local government and nonprofit organizations.

A three-time graduate of Northern Arizona University, Smith earned bachelor's degrees in political science and geography and a master's degree in public administration. She brings more than two decades of experience spanning higher education, government, and nonprofit leadership, with expertise in strategic planning and budgeting, fundraising, board governance, organizational leadership, change management, team building, and community engagement.

Since arriving at Idaho State, Smith has championed efforts to strengthen alumni and donor engagement, advance a culture of philanthropy across campus, and deepen connections between the university and communities throughout Idaho. She is passionate about the transformative power of public higher education and its ability to create opportunity for students, strengthen communities, and improve lives.

When she's not working, Smith enjoys volunteering in her community and exploring the canyons, mountains, and rivers throughout the Intermountain West and Southwest.

Stephanie Smith

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