DISTINGUISHED FACULTY SERVICE AWARD
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES Bret Smith — Department of Music PhD, Music Education, University of Michigan Master of Music, University of Michigan Music and Systematic Musicology, University of Washington
It is our pleasure to recommend Dr. Bret Smith, Professor of Music, for the CWU 2026 Distinguished Faculty Service Award. Since joining Central Washington University in 2005, Dr. Smith has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to service that has significantly strengthened the Department of Music, the College of Arts and Humanities, the university, and the broader field of music education. His career reflects a sustained dedication to leadership, institutional improvement, and professional engagement that has directly benefited students, faculty, and educators throughout the region. Dr. Smith’s service record spans nearly two decades of leadership across departmental, university, and professional settings. Within the Department of Music, he has served as Music Education Coordinator, Departmental Assessment Coordinator, and Associate Chair, while also leading curriculum, assessment, personnel, and search committees. One of his most significant contributions was serving as the primary author of the National Association of Schools of Music accreditation self-study, helping ensure the department met rigorous national standards. His work in accreditation, assessment, and curriculum alignment has strengthened the department’s long-term stability and academic quality. At the university level, Dr. Smith has played a major role in advancing institutional effectiveness and shared governance. As University Assessment Coordinator from 2012 to 2021, he helped guide the development of assessment systems that supported accreditation and institutional planning. He also served as CWU’s
Faculty Legislative Representative, advocating for higher education and strengthening relationships between the university and state policymakers. His service on Faculty Senate committees, strategic planning initiatives, accreditation work groups, and university task forces demonstrates a deep commitment to improving university processes and supporting CWU’s long-term goals. Beyond the university, Dr. Smith has made meaningful contributions to the field of music education through service with organizations such as the Washington Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the Professional Educator Standards Board, and national assessment initiatives. He has also served as a journal reviewer, editorial board member, and external evaluator for promotion and tenure reviews at other institutions, reflecting his respected leadership within the profession. Dr. Smith has also led innovative initiatives that expanded opportunities for educators and students. He created a summer master’s program in music education that served approximately 100 practicing teachers and helped establish CWU’s partnership with the American Band College, strengthening the university’s regional reputation and professional outreach. In summary, Dr. Bret Smith exemplifies the highest ideals of faculty service. His leadership, institutional impact, and dedication to students, faculty, and the broader educational community make him exceptionally deserving of the 2026 Distinguished Faculty Service Award.
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