Dr. Douglass P. Smith, Ph.D., M.P.M., M.B.A., PMP

Dr. Douglass P. Smith is a Professor of the Practice at the University of Kansas, bringing over two decades of experience in project management, information systems, business analytics, and higher education leadership. Known for blending academic rigor with real-world relevance, Dr. Smith’s teaching and mentorship emphasize practical application, critical thinking, and the formation of what he calls “Scholar-Practitioners”—students equipped to lead in complex, tech-driven environments. Prior to joining KU, Dr. Smith served as a tenured Associate Professor of Information Systems at Emporia State University, where he led curriculum development, chaired committees, and taught across a wide array of undergraduate and graduate courses. He has also served in key administrative roles such as Faculty Program Director of Information Technology at Excelsior University and Chair of Information Technology at Ottawa University, leading initiatives in online education, accreditation alignment, and instructional innovation.

Dr. Smith has designed and taught courses aligned with PMI, Agile, ITIL, and cybersecurity standards, working with students in traditional, executive, and online settings at institutions including Cornell University, the University of Virginia, and Colorado State University-Global. He’s particularly known for his ability to connect with adult learners and those from nontraditional backgrounds.

In addition to his academic work, Dr. Smith has held senior leadership roles in both government and private industry—including as CIO for the Kansas Department of Agriculture and as a Project Manager for Propylon, Inc.—where he managed large-scale technology implementations, led digital transformation efforts, and built stakeholder trust in high-stakes environments. His entrepreneurial ventures include co-founding two real estate investment firms and a technology-focused nonprofit organization.

A published researcher and frequent conference presenter, Dr. Smith has authored work on digital trust, experiential learning, and project-based education. His scholarship appears in Entrepreneurship Education and Pedagogy, Small Enterprise Research, and the Journal of Management History, among others. He actively mentors doctoral students and serves as a reviewer for several academic journals and conferences.

Dr. Smith holds a Ph.D. in Applied Management and Decision Sciences and dual master’s degrees in Project Management and Business (Information Systems). He is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and continues to champion learning that transforms both individuals and institutions.

In addition to his academic work, Dr. Doug serves as a minister, where he draws on his leadership experience to mentor emerging leaders and guide ethical decision-making, both in ministry and the classroom