LEXINGTON, Va. Jan. 20, 2026 — Col. Jeffrey Smith, head of the Department of Economics and Business, and holder of the General Edwin Cox 1920 Institute Professorship in History and Economics at Virginia Military Institute; and Maj. Isaac Slone, assistant director of operations and training in the commandant’s office, were recognized during the Jan. 17 home basketball game against The Citadel Bulldogs in Cameron Hall.

They have been named members of the All-Southern Conference Faculty and Staff Team for the 2025-26 academic year. With two representatives chosen from each of the Southern Conference’s 10 member schools, the All-Southern Conference Faculty and Staff Team recognizes individuals who have demonstrated service to their schools and made contributions to campus life and the local community.

Michael Cross, SoCon commissioner stated, “These outstanding faculty and staff members exemplify the excellence and commitment that define the Southern Conference. Their dedication to mentorship, teaching, leadership and service, their contributions to their institutions, and their positive impact on students and communities make them truly deserving of this recognition. We are proud to celebrate each of these dedicated individuals who go above and beyond in their roles and help make each SoCon campus a special and exceptional place.”  

Smith, a retired Air Force officer, is honored by the recognition.

“We are here to support all cadets. Athletes dedicate a tremendous amount of time in support of the Institute. It is my pleasure to help them as I would any other cadet.”

Smith earned his undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina, his master’s degree from Wright State University, and his doctorate from the University of Tennessee. His research interests include market efficiency, exchange-traded products, alternative assets, investment, wealth, and retirement. He has been published in multiple journals, and has taught at VMI since 2011.

Slone, who has held various key roles throughout his 13 years at VMI, said he is grateful for the acknowledgement.

“This recognition truly reflects the strength of the team I serve on here at VMI. Our focus is on supporting cadets who face unique academic, military, and athletic demands, and our successes are the result of shared commitment and hard work.” His broad experience at VMI has equipped him with a unique perspective on leadership, team development, and operations management. He has served as Echo Company TAC officer, head coach of the rock climbing team, and director of both indoor and outdoor training facilities. A native of Roanoke, Virginia, Slone earned his undergraduate degree from Ferrum College, and an MBA from Salem University in West Virginia.

Marianne Hause
Communications & Marketing
VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE