Bette Smith will take on the role of director at Ball State University’s Center for Innovation and Collaboration (CIC) starting January 5, 2026. This new center, located in Muncie at the intersection of Ashland Avenue and Martin Street, aims to revitalize The Village district and will open its doors in Fall 2026.
The CIC will be a place where students, faculty, community members, and business partners come together to share ideas, create prototypes, and meet the workforce needs of the region. As director, Smith will guide the center’s direction, manage daily operations, and build partnerships that link Ball State’s strengths with community and industry goals.
Dr. Anand R. Marri, provost at Ball State, expressed confidence in Smith’s collaborative experience. He noted that the CIC will embody the university’s commitment to blending education with real-world solutions. Under her guidance, the center aims to boost opportunities for students and faculty while promoting innovation across Indiana.
Smith has over 20 years of experience in higher education and partnership development. Before joining Ball State, she led the J.P. Morgan Center for Commodities at the University of Colorado Denver, building its academic programs and industry relationships. More recently, she was principal at Destra Consulting Group, advising various sectors on transformation and leadership.
“I’m excited to be part of Ball State University,” Smith said. “Innovation thrives when diverse perspectives unite. I look forward to collaborating with campus and community partners to bring the Center’s vision to life.”
The CIC is a cornerstone of Ball State’s Village Revitalization Plan, a public-private effort to strengthen ties between the campus and the community. Alongside the CIC, the upcoming Performing Arts Center and Cantio Hotel, both slated to open in Fall 2026, will play key roles in this redevelopment. The CIC will feature collaboration spaces, design studios, and state-of-the-art labs to support hands-on learning and partnerships.
Dr. Jennifer Palilonis, the interim director of the CIC, highlighted the groundwork laid over the past year. She believes Smith’s background in education and strategy will make the Center a hub for creativity and meaningful collaboration.
Bette Smith, originally from New York, holds a master’s degree in social science from the University of Colorado Denver and a bachelor’s in Russian studies from Bates College in Maine. As a certified change management practitioner, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her new role.
This revitalization effort reflects a broader trend in universities across the nation, aiming to connect more closely with local communities. According to a recent survey, 76% of college leaders say community engagement is critical to their institution’s mission. Smith’s leadership at the CIC could not only enhance educational partnerships in East Central Indiana but also inspire similar initiatives nationwide.
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