IRVINE, Calif., September 5, 2025 — MIND Education, the leader in neuroscience-driven math education, honors the life of former Chief Executive Officer and Chairman Emeritus, Ted Smith. A visionary leader, dedicated philanthropist, and revered Orange County businessman, Smith was a passionate supporter of the organization’s mission, and his legacy is forever woven into the fabric of MIND Education.
“Ted was a huge contributor to our mission as a generous benefactor, fundraiser and business
leader over two decades. He helped shape our organization and mission into what it is today. We were truly blessed by his legacy and will forever be grateful,” said Brett Woudenberg, Chief Executive Officer of MIND Education.
After a successful career as founder and CEO of FileNet Corporation, Smith’s connection to UC Irvine led him to meet the neuroscientist founders of the newly established M.I.N.D. Institute, a small nonprofit dedicated to applying breakthrough research on how the brain learns. Recognizing the potential to transform how children succeed in mathematics, he postponed his retirement in 2001 to join the MIND Research Institute board of directors. In that role, he attracted critical seed funding while inspiring many other local businesses and philanthropists to support the mission. Smith also contributed his business expertise to expand the reach of ST Math. In 2004, he became MIND’s first CEO, serving full-time on a volunteer basis. His leadership and commitment to students nationwide, including those in Washington, D.C., where he had grown up, culminated in a $25 million grant program that brought ST Math to some of the nation’s lowest-performing schools. This initiative was a resounding success, introducing millions of children to JiJi the penguin—a beloved learning companion—and helping them build math confidence and improve achievement through visualizations that align with how the brain learns.
“Ted’s business drive, applied to helping children, was truly remarkable,” said Mark Bodner, co-founder of MIND Research Institute. “While championing our unique neuroscience-based approach to math learning, he built a 200-person organization dedicated to reaching and supporting teachers and students nationwide.”
Smith’s commitment to philanthropy extended beyond his work with MIND, as he dedicated his time to numerous charities throughout his life. He continued to serve MIND as chairman emeritus until his passing.
“Ted’s unwavering commitment to ensuring every child’s success continues to inspire all of us at MIND,” said Bodner. “He was more than a leader–he remains a role model for us all.”
Visitation for Ted Smith will be held on Sunday, September 7.
