;)
The University of Saint Joseph will present James C. Smith with an honorary degree at its 2026 Commencement Ceremony on May 9, recognizing his leadership in banking, economic development, and philanthropy in Connecticut. In addition to receiving this distinction, he will address the class of 2026.
Smith is owner and CEO of JCSmith Advisors, a consulting firm serving banks and institutional investors. He previously served as Chairman and CEO of Webster Financial Corporation, where he led the transformation of Connecticut-based Webster Bank into a high-performing regional commercial institution known for its stability, innovation, and strong community focus. Throughout his career, Smith has held prominent industry leadership roles, including service on the boards of the American Bankers Association, the Financial Services Roundtable, and the Federal Advisory Council, which advises the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.
Beyond his corporate leadership, Smith has played a significant role in advancing economic growth and public policy initiatives throughout the state. He co-founded and serves as Chairman of AdvanceCT which promotes business development and job creation in Connecticut and was appointed by former Governor Dannel Malloy to serve as Co-Chairman of the Connecticut Commission on Fiscal Stability and Economic Growth.
Jim Smith’s commitment to strengthening our state’s economic future, while investing in the well-being of its communities, reflects the kind of principled leadership we hope to inspire in our graduates.
President Rhona Free
His longstanding civic engagement includes serving as founding General Chairman of the Connecticut Catholic Foundation where, under his leadership, a fundraising campaign raised nearly $50 million for capital improvements throughout the Archdiocese of Hartford’s 115 parishes. Jim Smith’s other community leadership roles include Chairman of the Harold Webster Smith Foundation, the Connecticut Business and Industry Association, and immediate past Chairman of Trinity Health of New England.
Jim Smith has also held leadership roles with the Harold Webster Smith Foundation, the Connecticut Catholic Foundation, the Connecticut Business and Industry Association, Trinity Health of New England, and United Way.
USJ President Rhona Free emphasized the impact of his contributions, stating “Jim Smith’s commitment to strengthening our state’s economic future, while investing in the well-being of its communities, reflects the kind of principled leadership we hope to inspire in our graduates.”
Smith’s legacy reflects a deep commitment to integrity, opportunity, and service — values that resonate strongly with the mission of the University of Saint Joseph.
USJ’s 2026 Commencement ceremony for undergraduate and graduate students will take place on Saturday, May 9, at the PeoplesBank Arena in Hartford, Connecticut.