In memoriam: James Smith

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James Smith, Director of Advancement Systems, Data and Reporting in UNCG Advancement, has passed away. 

Vacationing at the North Carolina coast and on a late-afternoon kayak trip, he was the victim of drowning. 

Smith joined UNCG in 1992 as Advancement Services’ business technical analyst and assistant director. In 2019, he became Director of Advancement Systems, Data and Reporting.

He held two degrees from UNCG: a master’s of business administration degree (information technology), earned in 1997, and a bachelor’s in computer and information sciences and support services, earned in 1993. 

“James was wicked-smart with a super-quick sense of humor to match – and he was a dedicated Spartan through and through” said Beth Fischer, Vice Chancellor for Advancement. “He was the keeper of all-things-data and -reporting in our division, and therefore supported every process and procedure, which made him critical to our success. He had so much wisdom and practical advice to share, with all he had experienced here at UNCG. All of us in Advancement are in shock. We’re grieving this immense loss. Our sympathies are with his family and all his friends.”

When an obituary and memorial arrangements are made public, they will be posted here.