Corey Smith Named Dean of the Chapel and Spiritual Engagement and Vicar at Voorhees University

Bishop Ruth Woodliff-Stanley is pleased to announce that Corey Smith has been called to serve as Dean of the Chapel and Spiritual Engagement and Vicar at Voorhees University, beginning July 18. Dean Smith graduated in May 2022 with a Master in Divinity from Virginia Theological Seminary and has been in discernment for his ordination with the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina. Until his ordination, Dean Smith will serve St. Philip’s Chapel as lay vicar. At Voorhees University, Dean Smith will hold the rank of Assistant Professor of Theological Studies.

Smith was selected for the newly-created position by an interview committee comprised of leaders from the Diocese of South Carolina, Voorhees University, and The Episcopal Church. “Our entire interview committee found our conversation with Dean Smith compelling,” said Bishop Ruth Woodliff-Stanley. “His vision, energy, and background position him well to join the dynamic team that President Hopkins is building for this season of excellence at Voorhees. I look forward to welcoming him to Voorhees and St. Philip’s Chapel as a new key leader of our diocese.”

Voorhees University President Dr. Ronnie Hopkins was directly involved in the new hire and believes Dean Smith will help the school continue to thrive and develop future leaders. “Voorhees University is delighted to welcome Corey Smith who will serve as the Dean of the Chapel and Spiritual Engagement and Vicar,” said Dr. Hopkins. “We have every confidence that Dean Smith will be instrumental in advancing the University to the Next Level of Excellence and truly enrich our lives as we seek to uplift the ambition and hopes of all citizens in our beloved community.”

Dean Smith has long been inspired by Howard Thurman, who among his many roles as a pastor, activist, and theologian, also served as a chaplain at various institutions of higher learning where he had significant impact on the lives of countless students. “I taught high school for 10 years, and one of the many things I appreciated most about teaching was seeing the success stories of my students,” said Dean Smith. “I see the opportunity at Voorhees as a way to serve God in an academic setting, while also worshipping God and helping to build the next generation of leaders.”

With a focus on marketing, media, digital technology, Dean Smith’s experience in ministry has spanned more than 25 years. “Voorhees University has a rich tradition and a story that most people aren’t aware of, and I hope to help raise the visibility and reach of the school and its history,” said Dean Smith. “Before coming to Denmark, South Carolina, I thought it was geographically located in the middle of nowhere, but now I see it's actually in the middle of everything. That's really what it is. It gives you an opportunity to cast a wide net.”
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This position is being fully funded by The Episcopal Church through the actions of the Executive Council. Voorhees University, located in the Diocese of South Carolina, is one of two historically black colleges and universities affiliated with The Episcopal Church.

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