Rodney K. Smith is an American academic figure. He was appointed President of Southern Virginia University (SVU) on June 1, 2004. Before coming to SVU, he served as interim dean and Herff Chair of Excellence in Law at The University of Memphis. He also has taught or served as dean at The University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Capital University, University of Montana, University of San Diego, Widener University and The University of North Dakota. Smith is a convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Rodney Smith received a law degree from Brigham Young University's J. Reuben Clark Law School. Smith served as the dean of Capital University's Law School. During his time in Columbus he also served as a bishop of an LDS ward in that city.