Kell Smith named Mississippi Community College Board Executive Director

The Mississippi Community College Board ( MCCB) has unanimously selected Mr. Kell Smith to serve as the agency's sixth Executive Director. He has been with the agency since May 2008, most recently serving as Interim Executive Director since July 2021. He previously served as Director of Communications and Legislative Services for the MCCB.

“I am very appreciative of the trust and confidence the board has placed in me. Mississippi's community colleges are among our state's greatest resources. I look forward to working with each of them to help ensure they have the tools and resources needed to serve their students,” said Mr. Smith.

John Pigott, chairman of the Mississippi Community College Board, added: “We are delighted that Kell will serve as the agency's next Executive Director. During his time at MCCB, he has been a part of helping promote the system across the state. His leadership will be an asset to the agency and to the community colleges.”

“The MCCB is a valuable partner of the community system. Since 2008, Kell has worked tirelessly to better each of our institutions. We look forward to continue working with him in this new position as we all strive to better Mississippi,” said

Dr. Valmadge Towner, President of Coahoma Community College and Chair of the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges.

Kell attended Mississippi State University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and also earned a Masters of Public Policy and Administration.

The mission of the Mississippi Community College Board is to advance the community college system through coordination, support, leadership, and advocacy.