Led natiionally recognized executive search firm
1940 - October 2, 2023
Herbert C. Smith, Ph.D., was a quiet mover and shaker in all the arenas he chose to enter. He dedicated his career to helping people as an athlete, educator, executive recruiter, businessman and coach.
If you knew him well, he undoubtedly shared his experience as a minor league shortstop in the Chicago Cubs farm system. His humor would come through as he talked about how he reassessed his career choice because his path to the majors was blocked by the irreplaceable future Hall of Famer Ernie Banks.
Herb redirected his career, entering academia and earning his doctorate. His interest in sports never wavered and he attained distinction as the Athletic Director at the University of Pittsburgh, holding that role as Pitt won its only national championship in football during the heyday of Tony Dorsett.
Herb was born in Shreveport, La. in 1940 to Lela Roan. He lived in Kansas City, Chicago, Pittsburgh and Cleveland.
Herb exuded quiet confidence. His demeanor was measured and judicious even when he was enthusiastic. The combined effect of his substance and style typically made a profound and posiitive impression on the wide variety of people he encountered.
Dr. Smith served on the board of the Drucker School of Management at Claremont Graduate University in Claremont, Calif. and several boards in Cleveland. He was an expert on leadership, organizational effectiveness and change management. In 1985, Dr. Smith founded HC Smith Ltd, an internationally recognized consulting firm that continues his legacy of service.
He was an avid golfer, world traveler, voracious reader and lover of all genres of music.
Herb passed away early in the morning on Oct. 24, 2023, at Maltz Hospice House in Beachwood, surrounded by his beloved family and dogs.
He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Ruben Smith; sisters, Margret Collins, Delores Jean Smith, Ethel Sanders, Claudia Champion and Artemise Brown; brother, Michael Smith; daughter, Tecia Smith; son, Edward (E.B.) Smith; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
The family will be celebrating his life in Chicago at a later date.
Contributions in Herb’s memory can be made to the University of Pittsburgh, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Maltz Hospice House or the First Tee of Akron.
Arrangements under the direction of Berkowitz-Kumin-Bookatz Memorial Chapel.
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