Faculty Friday Feature: James D. Smith, Director BLET

At last week’s Opening Day Convocation for BCC employees, JD Smith was honored with not one, but two of the college’s highest recognitions: the 2025 Teaching Excellence Award and the 2025 Dr. W. Michael Reaves Service Award. Surprised and humbled, JD accepted both with the quiet grace that reflects who he is as a leader, mentor, and educator. Those who know him best agree—he is more than deserving of both.

Since joining Brunswick Community College in 2009, JD Smith has set the standard for integrity, leadership, and student success within the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Program. Over the years, he has served as an instructor, then Assistant Director under his mentor Obbie M. Blanton III, and now leads the program as Director. Behind his steady presence in the classroom and field training is a story shaped by mentorship, resilience, and a commitment to serving others.

A Career of Service and Mentorship
JD began his career in law enforcement in 1999 with the Wilmington Police Department (WPD), where he met his lifelong mentor, the late Obbie M. Blanton III. “Obbie looked out for me throughout my entire career, and I believe he still does today,” JD recalls. “I often ask myself what I did to be lucky enough to have him as a mentor and friend?”

At WPD, JD worked in accident reconstruction, taught specialty driving and hazmat courses, and even taught a BLET night class at BCC. It was Obbie who urged JD to step into teaching—a decision that would eventually shape JD’s path and the futures of countless cadets.

A Life-Changing Challenge
In 2013, a car accident cut short JD’s career on the streets. He sustained serious injuries in an on-duty car accident, breaking his neck in three places. He spent four-and-a-half months learning to walk again. That experience could have ended his service. Instead, it began a new chapter as he broadened his role in BCC’s BLET program.

Leading with Integrity and Respect
JD’s leadership is rooted in honesty, accountability, and fairness. Known as direct and stern—but always fair—he sets clear expectations while treating students, colleagues, and law enforcement partners with respect and dignity. His example models the kind of integrity and professionalism that are essential for future officers.

Building Community and Paying It Forward
JD believes in his students as Obbie once believed in him. Many face challenges such as homelessness, hunger, or personal loss that threaten to derail their training. Students trust him with their struggles, and JD quietly steps in—often at his own expense—to ensure they have the support they need to succeed. Graduates frequently return to BCC’s Leland Center to thank him, seek advice, or visit, a testament to the difference he has made in their lives.

Creating Opportunity and Excellence
Through his teaching and mentorship, JD empowers students to reach their highest potential, both personally and professionally. His commitment to rigorous, high-quality education prepares them not just for meaningful careers in law enforcement but for lives of service in their communities.

Beyond the Badge
When he’s not mentoring future officers, JD loves spending time at the bowling alley. His love for the sport started in college when he signed up for Bowling as an elective. What he thought might be an “easy A” quickly turned into a lifelong passion. Over the years, his dedication to the sport even took him to the National Bowling Championship. Whether on the lanes or in the classroom, JD approaches challenges with the same mix of discipline, perseverance, and good humor.

A Lasting Legacy
JD’s story of service and resilience makes it clear why he is so deserving of the honors he received at this year’s convocation. Our future law enforcement officers are in the best of hands.

August 2025