William Gaines Smith began his career with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System in 1965 as a county farm agent. During his time with ACES, Smith served 22 counties as a district extension agent and held several positions, retiring as statewide director. Smith was named director emeritus in 2012.
He received a BS in Animal Science a Masters in Ag Business/Production and an Ed.D. in Education Administration/Public Administration. Early in his career, he received a sound word of advice from his director at the time, Dr. Fred Robinson: “Do a good job where you are and be ready for future opportunities.” Smith followed this advice for the rest of his career, eventually becoming director himself. Smith offers the same advice he was once given by Robinson: take advantage of all the professional development opportunities that are presented to you and hone in on your interpersonal skills. Both of these are necessary for long-term success in Extension. |
While working for ACES, Smith said one of the largest challenges he faced was staying focused and keeping Extension focused on providing effective programs during periods of major change. Those challenges still stand true today while managing priorities in the fast-paced world.
Though Smith retired after 47 years with ACES, he still remains busy in both Auburn and Autauga County. He is the co-owner of Evergreen Hills Forest, director on the Alabama 4-H Club Foundation Board and supervisor of Autauga County Soil and Water Conservation District. Smith has spent much of his life dedicated to agriculture. One of his individual achievements was the naming of the Environmental Education Building at the 4-H Center in his honor. He and his wife Joan have four children and four grandchildren. |