JU President Tommy Smith Cites Health Challenges in Announcing Plan to Retire in 2024

Johnson University president Tommy Smith announced today he will retire from his position effective June 30, 2024. 

“I want what is best for the mission of this university,” Smith said via a news release at johnsonu.edu, “and my health situation prevents me from providing the long-term leadership this great work requires.” 

Smith said he has polycystic kidney disease, “a genetic and incurable disease that gradually reduces my kidney function.” As it worsens, dialysis may be required. Also, he has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, “a cancer of the blood that can affect kidney function. I am being evaluated for a potential kidney transplant, but it is unclear at this point whether that will be a possibility.” 

“I don’t want my health to affect the health of the university,” he said. “There is much work to do in the coming year and I plan to be fully engaged as my health situation permits.” 

Smith has served as the seventh president of JU since the summer of 2017. Smith said he and his wife, Debbie, welcome the public’s prayers, even as they ask for prayers for the university and its future. 

Smith’s announcement on JU’s Facebook page attracted 100 comments and 400 “like,” “love,” and “care” responses within hours of its posting. The response was similar on Johnson’s Instagram and Twitter sites.

Inquiries and expressions of interest in serving as Johnson’s next president may be directed to Dr. Richard Woods, chairman of the trustees.