Advisory Board Member
Clentice Smith
Class of 1988
Clentice earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Purdue University in 1988. During his six years at Purdue, he was an active member of the “All-American” Marching Band, performed as a trumpeter, served as Vice President of Kappa Kappa Psi, and held the role of Clothing Office Head. During his time with Purdue Bands & Orchestras, Clentice participated in six Indianapolis 500 Parade and Race Day performances as both a trumpet player and Big Bass Drum beater.
His dedication to Purdue Bands & Orchestras has continued long after graduation. He started serving on the advisory board in 2023 and has not missed an Alumni Marching Band performance since 1988. He also performs with Boiler Brass during student holiday breaks.
Clentice has spent more than 30 years living and working in the Chicago area, where he has built a successful career in food manufacturing operations, overseeing the production of products ranging from cookies and crackers to muffins and snack foods. Outside of work, he has performed with the Chicago City Wide Symphony Orchestra for more than 15 years. An avid traveler and photographer, he has visited more than 50 countries and enjoys cooking, exploring new cuisines, and cheering on Purdue athletics.