Smith named new executive director of Campus Recreation

After a national search, Eric Smith was named executive director of Campus Recreation, effective Nov. 21. In his new role, Smith leads the department’s more than 50 staff members and oversees its numerous facilities, including the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center and Sportsplex.

“Eric has a genuine enthusiasm for Auburn and our students, and he is passionate about the key role mental and physical well-being plays in their academic, personal and professional success,” Senior Vice President for Student Affairs Bobby R. Woodard said. “Auburn offers exceptional recreation and wellness facilities and programming, and we look forward to continued innovation and excellence under his leadership.”

Smith has served as director of Health Promotion and Wellness Services since joining Auburn in 2010. Throughout his tenure at the university, he has filled additional roles within Student Affairs, including as acting director of Student Conduct and interim executive director of University Housing.

“The ability to bring Health Promotion and Wellness Services together with Campus Recreation is a tremendous opportunity, and I am excited to be chosen for this amazing role,” Smith said. “We are poised to be a health-promoting university and I look forward to supporting our students, staff and faculty through accessible facilities, quality programming and other innovative endeavors.”  

Before Auburn, Smith served in numerous student-facing roles at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, focusing on alcohol and drug prevention, student wellness and residence life. A native of Maryland’s Eastern shore, Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and secondary education from Salisbury University and a Master of Arts in student affairs administration in higher education from Ball State University.

Learn more about Campus Recreation here.