06/18/15
by Samantha Dean
Gina Smith has accepted the position as director of the Kelly Center at Fort Hays State University. She will begin her role July 1.

Smith has worked as an instructor with the Department of Psychology and as a counselor in the Kelly Center. She has 23 years of experience working with people of all ages in mental health agencies, clinical counseling and supervising.

Smith will be promoting the Kelly Center, providing guidance for students, faculty and staff and planning T.I.G.E.R.S. Series Workshops.

"I want to continue the positive work Kenton Olliff has started," said Smith. "I plan to begin my position by evaluating the Kelly Center's services and see if there is anything we need to add or improve on."

Olliff, the previous director, is now assistant vice president for student affairs.

One of Smith's long-term goals is to serve on the task force that was initiated by Dr. Leo Herrman of the Psychology Department in conjunction with the Kelly Center, for the Jed and Clinton Foundation Health Matters Campus Program. This is a four-year program that focuses on campus health and wellness.

Another goal is to lessen the stigma of going to the Kelly Center for help.

"We are here to help the students in any way we can," said Smith. "We want to make sure that we are providing the services and technology that best meets the student's needs."

After being at Fort Hays State University since 2000, Smith is ready to take on the challenge of her new role and aid the Kelly Center in providing services to the students.

"I'm really excited to start my new position," said Smith. "The Kelly Center has a great staff, and I look forward to being a part of it."

The Kelly Center, Picken Hall, room 111, provides free support services for students, faculty and staff. For more information visit the Kelly Center's website, www.fhsu.edu/kellycenter/.