Oran P. Smith, Ph.D

Dr. Oran Smith has developed a reputation as a trusted adviser and public policy scholar during his many years of service in the Palmetto State. His prior work includes President of Palmetto Family Council, COO of the SC Business & Industry Political Education Committee [BIPEC] and regional economic development director in the Office of the Governor (Carroll Campbell). Dr. Smith co-founded Palmetto Promise Institute with Senator Jim DeMint and Ellen Weaver in 2013 and currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors and Senior Fellow.

Oran holds a PhD in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of South Carolina and has also studied at Clemson University and George Washington University. His dissertation, The Rise of Baptist Republicanism, directed by Professor Earl Black, was published by New York University Press.

Oran has served on the Board of Trustees for Coastal Carolina University since its independence in 1993 where he chairs the Academic Excellence & Student Experience Committee. He is a Commissioner on the state Commission on Higher Education representing the Senior Comprehensive Teaching Institutions. A native of Greenville County, Dr. Smith has authored numerous scholarly and policy publications.