The Carson College of Business extends its deepest sympathy to the family of Don Smith, emeritus professor of the School of Hospitality Business Management in the Carson College of Business. Don passed away Tuesday, November 29, 2016.
He was affectionately known by his colleagues and students as “the Coach.” As a professor and mentor at WSU and in every other chapter of his career, Don made a positive difference in countless lives. Don inspired all who knew him to strive to achieve their best. His irrepressible energy, unflagging optimism, and passion for excellence made him one of the most beloved professors in the history of the School of Hospitality Business Management. At WSU, Don held two distinguished professorships, first as the Westin professor and then as the Taco Bell professor. In 1995 the University named its annual chain restaurant conference in his honor. Don retired in 2000. He was to be honored in May 2017 as an inductee in the School of Hospitality of Business Management Hall of Fame. To learn more about Don Smith’s legacy at Washington State University or share a personal testimony about his influence, visit http://tinyurl.com/zxdssks. In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions in Coach’s name be directed to the Don Smith Distinguished Professorship in Hospitality at http://tinyurl.com/heannpn.
