University of Denver Spring 2026

IN MEMORIAM

REMEMBERING Dwight Smith

With special thanks to Professor Gareth Eaton, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Chancellor Emeritus Dwight Smith passed away Nov. 29, 2025, at age 94. DU’s 15th chancellor, Smith guided the University to focus on academic excellence, a stimulating student learning experience, and the faculty as leaders of the academic program. This approach put DU on the path of becoming an R1 research institution that maintains its focus on undergraduate students. Smith arrived at DU in 1972 as professor and chair of the Department of Chemistry. After his appointment as chancellor in 1984, he restructured the University and balanced the budget. He helped to redesign the academic program, create the separate colleges, and restart the Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science.

Any remembrance of Smith would be incomplete without mention of his focus on athletics. Despite tight budgets, he encouraged investment in sport sciences academic programs; he also provided DU’s athletes with the resources to compete against top U.S. teams. Smith was fond of hockey, attending almost every home contest and holding “office hours” at the top of the stadium during which faculty members could talk with him—no appointment necessary. “Smith exemplified a lifelong commitment to education, scientific advancement, and public service,” says Chancellor Jeremy Haefner. “His devotion to the DU community leaves a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.”

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UNIVERSITY OF DENVER MAGAZINE | SPRING 2026