At Glendale Community College, public speaking professor Dr. Jeffrey Smith is known for his passion for teaching and his dedication to helping students grow as communicators. Having embarked on his teaching journey in 2001 in Glendale Community College and transitioning to a full-time role in 2011, Dr. Smith’s career in education and public speaking reflects his roots in the institution.
Dr.Smith connection to Glendale Community College is when he was student there around 1981 to 1982. He was majoring in Journalism with a focus on broadcasting at that time. Glendale Community College is like my second home, that keeps my passion, he said. While studying in Washington, D.C., Smith decided to change his major, finding journalism a difficult field to break into. Instead, he began to explore a path that eventually led to education. “Teaching is fun,” Smith said. “Even though I’ve been doing this for over 15 years, it feels like the time has flown by.”
Smith compares public speaking to sports — a skill that improves with practice. “Don’t just memorize,” he said. “Know your material and engage with your audience.” Smith compares public speaking to sports — a skill that improves with practice. “Don’t just memorize,” he said. “Know your material and engage with your audience.” This line resonates with many people who often grapple with anxiety. Most of the students have trouble with human relationships. These thoughts are very important for us.
However Dr. Smith’s views of artificial intelligence relate with speaking. He encouraged adaptability. “We have to learn how to adapt. Humans may still be too young to utilize AI, but we can use it wisely and ethically.”That technology has the potential to bridge gaps, especially for those who are unable to communicate verbally or have disabilities. He also remains in the future, hopefully still communicating in person.
When asked about the essence of speaking, Smith said, “Speaking makes you the boss. It’s an element of being human — a tool, and sometimes, a weapon.”
He explained that strong communication can elevate scientists, artists, and professionals by helping them share ideas with the world. “If that skill is outstanding, it can make you famous or bring you closer to your goals,” he said. “But if used the wrong way, it can also isolate you.”We have to learn the power of our words. In a world that often feels fragmented, the importance of personal connection through effective communication is important. In an increasingly digital world, Dr. Smith’s reflections are a reminder of the power of human connection. Communication helps us share ideas, build relationships, and inspire change — both in the classroom and beyond.
Yoichi Terada can be reached at [email protected].