STEVE SMITH RETIRED THIS SPRING after decades of service to Truman as both a faculty member and head tennis coach.
A member of the faculty staff since 1988, Smith taught mathematics courses for generations of students. His academic background includes degrees from North Dakota State University, where he was also a tennis student-athlete, as well as master’s and doctoral degrees in mathematics from Oregon State University.
In 2019, Smith added coaching duties, becoming Truman’s head tennis coach. During his tenure, the Bulldogs posted .500 or better records in five seasons and concluded the 2026 campaign with a 12-10 mark.
Smith emphasized respect for teammates, opponents and the game itself, values that shaped the culture of the program throughout his time as coach. His retirement marked the close of a unique Truman career that combined excellence in the classroom with leadership in athletics.


