Michael Smith-Porter

Michael Smith-Porter serves as Chief of Staff to Senior Vice Provost and Chief Honors Officer Amber Williams in the Division of Student Success at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He leads strategic initiatives that advance student success, strengthen cross-campus partnerships, and support the division’s efforts to improve student learning, persistence, engagement, and graduation outcomes. Through project management, executive leadership support, and organizational coordination, Michael helps translate institutional priorities into action and fosters collaboration across the university to enhance the Volunteer experience.

As chief of staff, Michael serves as a strategic advisor and thought partner to the senior vice provost, leading high-priority initiatives and managing complex projects that span the Division of Student Success and the broader university community. His portfolio includes project management, research and policy development, fundraising and stewardship efforts, executive communications, divisional planning, and the coordination of university-wide student success initiatives. He works closely with campus leaders, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and external partners to advance innovative programs and initiatives that strengthen student outcomes and support the university’s mission.

Michael has served the University of Tennessee, Knoxville since 2014, holding roles in Undergraduate Admissions and Enrollment Management before joining the Division of Student Success in 2022. His experiences across recruitment, enrollment strategy, special projects, and university partnerships have provided a broad perspective on the student journey from prospective student through graduation.

Michael earned both his bachelor’s degree in political science and his master’s degree in public policy and administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As a UT alumnus, he brings a strong understanding of the institution and a deep commitment to supporting initiatives that foster student success.

Education: master’s in public policy and administration, University of Tennessee, Knoxville; bachelor’s in political science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

CliftonStrengths: Learner, Maximizer, Input, Futuristic, Focus.