Smith promoted to new position at UC Irvine

Paula Smith has been promoted to Senior Associate Athletic Director at UC Irvine, Athletic Director Mike Izzi announced Friday.

“Paula’s leadership abilities are an integral part of our department,” Izzi said. “Her background and experience have been, and will, continue to be vital components to our success.”

Smith has served as associate athletic director/senior woman administrator at UCI since July 2006.

She previously served in a similar position at UC Riverside from 2001-06. Prior to that, Smith was assistant athletic director/student services at UCI for two years.

Smith acted as UCI’s interim athletic director in 2008 and is currently member of the NCAA Division I Championship/Sports Management Cabinet.

Smith worked at the Big West Conference office for 11 years, including six as assistant commissioner. She is a 1988 graduate of New Mexico State University.

— From staff reports