Faculty Spotlight: Bernie Smiley

For more than two decades, College of the Mainland (COM) professor Bernie Smiley has been a familiar face and an influential force in the lives of COM students. This year the community recognized his impact once again. Smiley earned second place in The Daily News Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Professor, marking his second consecutive appearance among the area’s most celebrated educators.

The honor follows his 2024 win when readers named him Best Professor. While the awards reflect the enthusiasm of the Galveston County community, for Smiley they hold a deeper meaning.

“I’m a lifelong member of Galveston County,” he said. “To be recognized here, where I was born and raised, makes it even more meaningful.”

Smiley joined COM full time in 2003. Since then, his classroom has become a place where curiosity is welcomed, perspectives are explored and students are encouraged to think boldly. Known for what he jokingly calls an “aggressively optimistic” philosophy, he pushes students to take advantage of opportunity, meet challenges head-on and see value in the viewpoints of others.

“You might be right or we might both be right,” he often tells his classes. “We just have entirely different perspectives on what’s going on here. So, let’s talk about it, and that allows everybody to broaden their mind, which is exactly what college is supposed to be about.”

That spirit of conversation and connection is what Smiley believes sets COM apart. He encourages those considering college to take a closer look at the resources available to them, from affordability and support services to small class sizes that help students feel seen.

“We’re here because we believe in education and we believe in the community college system,” he said. “I love what I do.”

Smiley’s continued recognition reflects his dedication to students and the strong foundation of support they receive at COM. Across campus, faculty members are known for their ability to connect with students individually, guide them through challenges and help them prepare for meaningful futures.

In celebrating Smiley, the community also celebrates the strength of COM’s faculty, professionals who lead with skill, heart and a belief in every student’s potential.