Former EVSC Superintendent Joins Evansville Promise Neighborhood

You remember Dr. David Smith, right? He was the longtime Superintendent of the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation (EVSC) before retiring last year. Well, I guess retirement didn’t suit him, because he’s back to work, this time for the University of Evansville. Dr. Smith has been named the very first Sustainability Coordinator for the Evansville Promise Neighborhood (EPN).

Why The Sustainability Coordinator Role Matters

This newly created position is all about making sure the powerful work of the Evansville Promise Neighborhood doesn’t slow down when federal grant funding eventually wraps up. In other words, it’s focused on keeping momentum strong and making sure the positive changes happening now continue well into the future.

Dr. David Smith’s History With the EVSC and UE

If there’s anyone who understands how to do that, it’s Dr. Smith. His decades of leadership experience, deep roots in the Evansville community, and strong national connections, make him uniquely qualified for the job. During his time with the EVSC, Dr. Smith played a key role when the University of Evansville was awarded the federal Promise Neighborhood grant in 2023.

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Dr. Smith says, “This is the kind of collaborative, child-centered work that truly changes lives. I’m honored to help make sure this work continues for years to come.”

What The Evansville Promise Neighborhood Does

In his new role, Dr. Smith will focus on strengthening partnerships, building organizational capacity, and creating systems that allow EPN’s work to thrive long after the grant period ends. His goal is to make sure the support structures built through EPN continue to benefit Evansville families for generations.

Dr. Smith will work closely with the Center for Innovation and Change, where EPN is housed, helping identify fundraising opportunities and long-term strategies to keep the mission moving forward.

If you would like to help sustain the work of the Evansville Promise Neighborhood, you can reach out anytime at epn@evansville.edu.