Abstract
This week, Sarah Brings welcomes Dr. Buffy Smith, the Dean of Dougherty Family College. Dr. Smith discusses how her personal background and education have shaped her research, which focuses on making higher education more accessible-especially for first-generation students and those from under-resourced communities.
As a nationally recognized expert in mentoring, access, retention, equity, and diversity in higher education, Dr. Smith has developed strategies that influence both policy and practice. Her research directly informed the educational model at Dougherty Family College. Through her work, she fosters peer mentorship and creates culturally affirming learning environments, empowering students not only to navigate college successfully but to thrive and achieve academic excellence.