Dustin Smith Obituary, ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Associate Professor Dustin Smith, 40, has died this week at his home in St. Louis, according to a message shared with the Webster University community. The university said no foul play is suspected.
Smith was a valued member of the faculty in Webster University’s George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology. During his time at the university, he served as an academic counselor to many students and helped build connections between the Walker School and local businesses and organizations.
Through that work, Smith helped connect students with internship opportunities and supported their academic and professional development. His role allowed him to work closely with students while also strengthening relationships between the university and the surrounding business community.
Smith taught a range of management courses, with his teaching focused on areas including corporate social responsibility and business strategy. Among the courses he taught were the Business Policy and Strategy senior capstone and Human Resource Management.
University officials said Smith touched the lives of many students and alumni. His death has been especially difficult for students currently enrolled in his classes, with the university working with faculty members to assign professors to take over his courses.
Webster University Provost Michael Hulsizer and Sam Dotson, dean of the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology, expressed condolences to Smith’s family, friends, students and colleagues. The university also encouraged members of the community who are struggling with the loss to use available counseling and support services.
As the Webster community mourns Smith’s passing, the university said it will continue providing support to students, faculty and staff and will share plans for moving forward. Dustin Smith will be remembered by the university community for his contributions to teaching, student guidance, business connections and the lives he touched during his career.
