Deron Smith – Trustee

Deron developed a love for Uganda while living and working there from 1994-2002, and joined Kibo’s board in 2106. After leaving Uganda he preached at the East Sunshine Church of Christ in Springfield, Missouri for 16 years. Deron received bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Harding University and a Ph.D. in Theology from Trinity College, University of Bristol, UK. He currently serves as the Director of Accelerated Pastoral Leadership at Lipscomb University and teaches Bible and Ministry courses. He and his wife Becca have three daughters. He enjoys talking about how amazing God is, working out, sports, music, being outside, and sipping on good coffee.

What Deron loves about Kibo: “I appreciate and value all of Kibo’s programs, of course, but I am drawn to the Mvule Program, which is where most of the whole-village transformation begins. While trees are planted, nurtured, and protected, the people in the village begin to see themselves as a team, even a family, that is working toward a purpose bigger than any one person—one that has potential to be long-lasting and holistic. God loves people and delights in seeing them grow, like trees.”