Dr. Marlon A. Smith is a scholar-activist with over 30 years of experience in community development and outreach for education, community-nonprofit, and faith-based organizations. In addition to his academic roles, Dr. Smith is the founder of Black Greeks Speak Social Justice and Human Rights Council (BGS), has held positions for local and national organizations and institutions, some of which include serving as the Program Director for General Board of Church and Society at the United Nations Office, Senior Manager for Policy and Engagement for Baker Ripley (formerly Neighborhood Centers Houston), and as the Chief Community Builder for The Women’s Home of Houston Texas. Most recently, Dr. Smith joined USC Upstate as the Director of the Center for Africana and African American Studies (CAAAS) as well as overseeing the university’s African American Studies Program.