Joianne L. Smith, Ph.D.
President
Oakton College
Illinois
An institution’s marketing and communications department plays a critical role in telling the college’s story, communicating what we do; why it matters; and the impact we have on students, our communities and our region. The department is often the bridge between the work happening across the institution and the many audiences we seek to engage.
College leadership has a responsibility to support marketing and communications because effective communication is essential to advancing institutional priorities. The department helps ensure that our communications are strategic, consistent and aligned with the college’s brand and mission. Providing marcom with the resources, access, information and leadership support necessary to do this work well is essential.
I have sought to be a strong advocate for marketing and communications by recognizing the department as a strategic partner rather than simply a service function. I engage the team early in conversations about institutional priorities and initiatives so that communication is considered from the beginning, rather than as an afterthought.
At Oakton College, I have consistently emphasized the importance of highlighting the stories of our students to demonstrate ways the college is transforming lives and strengthening our communities. When we communicate with clarity, consistency and authenticity, we strengthen relationships and reinforce confidence in the institution.
I have presented at state and national conferences, including those hosted by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), Achieving the Dream, the Higher Learning Commission and the Association of Governing Boards. I also serve on the Board of Community Colleges for International Development, contributing to the advancement of global educational opportunities and international engagement across the community and technical college sector.
I have participated in podcasts and other national forums, including “Knowledge Unbound,” that provide opportunities to share Oakton’s work and perspective with a broader audience. Oakton’s innovative work has also received national attention, including features in the Chronicle of Higher Education, Inside Higher Ed and CC Daily.
I participated in the Aspen Presidential Fellowship, an experience that strengthened my leadership and expanded my engagement with community college leaders across the country. In 2026, Oakton was also recognized among the Aspen Institute’s top 200 community colleges, an acknowledgment that reflects the collective work of our faculty, staff, students and leaders.
I participate in the annual ACCT Legislative Summit and regularly engage with federal legislators on Capitol Hill to advocate for policies and investments that strengthen community colleges and expand opportunities for our students.
Who is someone who’s mentored you during your career? What’s a piece of advice or story they’ve shared that you carry with you?
One of the most meaningful mentors in my career has been Bonnie Lucas, Oakton’s retired vice president for information technology and a wonderful former colleague. Bonnie has been a mentor and trusted source of wisdom for me throughout my career, and one of the phrases she often shared has stayed with me: “Live in the land of truth.”
It is simple advice, but it has impacted how I lead. Challenges are inevitable in any organization, and effective leadership requires being willing to acknowledge those challenges rather than avoiding or minimizing them. I believe in being honest about what is happening, communicating openly about what we know and what we don’t know, and facing difficult circumstances together.
“Live in the land of truth” reminds me that transparency builds trust. People may not always agree with a decision or like the circumstances they are facing, but they deserve honesty and authenticity from their leaders. I find myself returning to Bonnie’s words often, and I share them with others because they capture an important principle of leadership: You build trust by having the courage to face reality, tell the truth and move forward together.
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