Southern Arkansas University jazz director honored for distinguished military service
MAGNOLIA, AR (06/16/2026) Southern Arkansas University is proud to recognize Jason Smith, director of Jazz Studies and assistant professor of trumpet in the Dempsey College of Liberal and Performing Arts, for a distinguished chapter of military service that continues to inform his leadership, artistry, and dedication to students at SAU.
This past December, during the retirement ceremony of his wife, Dr. Christin Foley Smith, Smith was unexpectedly honored in a ceremonial presentation recognizing his early years of service with the United States Air Force Band of the West. Smith left the Air Force in 2012, and being formally recognized more than 14 years later is uncommon, making the moment especially meaningful both professionally and personally.
Smith served on active duty in the United States Air Force from 2006 to 2011 and was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for meritorious service as a Regional Band Journeyman with the USAF Band of the West, 502d Air Base Wing, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. During this period, he performed trumpet in more than 300 performances with five ensembles, reaching nearly six million audience members across the Southwest region of the United States.
In addition to his performance responsibilities, Smith held significant leadership roles, including Musical Director and Operations Representative for the Air Force jazz ensemble Dimensions in Blue. In that capacity, he organized musical programming, secured performance venues, and coordinated travel logistics for 142 events across a four-state region. His leadership culminated in the release of the ensemble’s jazz recording, I’ll Be Home.
Smith also played a key role in marketing and outreach efforts for the band. He conceived and produced the 2009 “Fiesta in Blue” concert series, an ambitious production that engaged thousands of community members and expanded the ensemble’s regional reach.
Recognized for his versatility and professionalism, Smith was hand-selected to perform as a last-minute substitute with the elite United States Air Force Band’s Airmen of Note when their lead trumpet player went on emergency leave. With just 24 hours of notice, he successfully prepared and performed two full programs, ensuring mission success across Texas and Oklahoma.
Internationally, Smith represented the United States at the 2009 NATO Musikfest, performing in a six-nation partnership concert viewed by more than nine million people. His contributions helped strengthen international cultural relations and highlighted the role of music in diplomacy.
“I was deeply moved by the recognition,” Smith said. “Those years were filled with meaningful work-performing hundreds of concerts, leading ensembles, collaborating with incredible musicians, and serving a mission I believed in wholeheartedly. It is an honor to reflect on that experience and to bring those lessons into my work with students at Southern Arkansas University.”
Now serving on the faculty at Southern Arkansas University, Smith brings the same commitment to excellence, service, and leadership to his work with SAU Bands and the Jazz Studies program, mentoring the next generation of musicians while continuing to grow a vibrant jazz culture on campus.
Smith extends special thanks to Lt. Col. Michael Hoerber for his leadership and for formally recognizing this chapter of service.
Southern Arkansas University celebrates Jason Smith’s achievements and is honored to have his experience, artistry, and dedication enriching the academic and cultural life of the institution.
About SAU:
Southern Arkansas University provides students with the complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community. With more than 100 degrees across four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies, SAU initiates new degree programs to meet the needs of today’s career and professional trends. To learn more about SAU, visit www.saumag.edu.