Dennis Smith serves as Director of Athletics and Operations at Presbyterian Day School (PDS) of Memphis, TN, one of the largest elementary boys’ schools in the country.

Dennis, born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, graduated from The University of Memphis with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education. He began his career at PDS in 1987, spending the last 29 years teaching, coaching and mentoring students.

Working with youth from all areas of the mid-south, Coach Smith founded one of the top AAU baskeball programs in the nation, coaching his teams to three Memphis city Championships, 10 Tennessee Regional Championships, 14 Tennessee State Championships, 11 Top Ten Finishes in National Tournaments, and One National Classic Championship.

Coach Smith has coached over 80 recreation and 40 competitive teams. He has conducted over 150 basketball camps and clinics for players and coaches.

He was the recipient of the 1999 Youth Leadership Award presented by the University of Memphis and continues to be a leader in the community as the founder and director of Victory Ranch, a non-profit camp and retreat center located in the mid-south. Under Coach Smith’s leadership, Victory Ranch has become one of the best Christian overnight camps, existing to nurture and challenge the body, mind and spirit to the glory of God.

In his free time, Coach Smith enjoys spending time with his family, riding his horses, and working in the yard. He is married to Anne and they have three children.

Cheryl Burkart is a native of Memphis, Tennessee. She attended the University of Memphis. In 2008, she became Director of Administrative Support, coordinating logistical details throughout the school. She is the primary support for Head of School, Brad Sewell. 

She supports Director of Operations and Athletics Director, Dennis Smith, with facilities and is the liaison between PDS and 2PC with scheduling facilities. She supports the Board of Trustees and the Martin Institute. Prior to starting at PDS, she was the co-owner of Fox Ridge Pet Resort boarding and grooming kennel. She is married to Ed Burkart and has two daughters. Mrs. Burkart enjoys reading, cooking, entertaining, traveling and attending sports events with her husband.