Originally from Bayshore, New York, Dr. James J. Smisek has been the Director of Bands at Seminole State College since 2014. He graduated with a D.M.A. degree in Instrumental Conducting from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, studying with Dr. John R. Locke.  While at UNCG he served as the conductor of the UNCG Symphonic Band 2004-05 and previously conducted the University Band 2003-04.

Dr. Smisek was Director of Bands at Samford University in Alabama from August 2006 through May 2014. He taught high school band and orchestra for twelve years in Central Florida, one year in Delaware, and he taught at Seminole Community College as the Director of Jazz Studies from 2000-01. He continues to work as an adjudicator and clinician throughout Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, Arizona, Virginia, South Carolina, Kentucky, and Mississippi.

In 2000, he completed the Master of Music degree in Music Education with honors at Rollins College, in Winter Park, Florida.  He earned the Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education from the University of Florida in Gainesville and the Associate of Arts degree from Seminole Community College in Sanford, Florida.  Dr. Smisek was also a musician in the United States Army Band program as a trumpet player from 1989 – 91 and continues to perform as a freelance musician.

He is a member of the National Association for Music Education, College Music Society, Florida Music Educators Association, Florida Bandmasters Association, National Band Association, College Band Directors National Association, Phi Beta Mu, Pi Kappa Lambda and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.  Dr. Smisek is married to Lynette, and they have two children, Chelsea and Carson. In addition, he is also the proud grandfather (G-Pa) of Arley, Ryland, and Oliver!