BCC Dedicates Dr. Joe Lee Smith Teaching Center

February 23, 2012, Brevard County, FL - BCC’s Melbourne Campus has a newly-named building: The Dr. Joe Lee Smith Teaching Center.

The newly-renovated building is a multi-purpose facility that houses a computer lab, classrooms and a number of faculty offices.

"In many ways, Dr. Smith IS BCC," said BCC President, Dr. Jim Richey during the building's February 22 dedication. "He is a man dedicated to our students, dedicated to the cause of higher education, and dedicated the betterment of our community. He is the very definition of the words integrity and humility."

"I count myself among his fortunate pupils for the invaluable lessons he has taught me since I came to college, and for continuing to share with me his knowledge, experience and insight every day."

The dedication finalized an honor bestowed on Dr. Smith by the BCC Board of Trustees. The event was attended by nearly 100 Brevard County residents, faculty, staff, students, friends and family.

"I'm overwhelmed by this honor and the outpouring of support from so many of you here today," said Smith. "Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Smith's career at BCC spans more than 40 years. He's also served on numerous community and civic boards. A native Floridian born in Cocoa, he's a product of Monroe High School. Smith graduated from Florida A&M University with both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Education. He earned the rank 1-A Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree and Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) in Administration and Supervision in Higher Education from the University of Florida. He has had a distinguished career as an educator in Brevard, Broward and Dade Counties.

His career has included classroom teacher; coach; high school assistant principal; research assistant at the University of Florida; coordinator, director, dean and provost of BCC's Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay and Melbourne campuses, and Executive Director of the Moore Multicultural Center. He is currently the Executive Advisor to BCC's President and College Ambassador.

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Brevard Community College is committed to engaging our diverse
population in quality, affordable, accessible learning opportunities which
successfully meet individual and community needs.