Robert J. Smith and Ron Wallace announce a joint nationwide initiative to boost literacy, civic understanding, and leadership among young Americans.
WINTER GARDEN, Florida, December 2, 2025 — Two renowned Fortune 500 leaders, Robert J. Smith, MFA, and Ron Wallace, former President of UPS International, have announced a coordinated national initiative focused on literacy, civic understanding, and historical education. The effort brings together Smith’s youth-centered writing, public speaking and entrepreneur programs, and Wallace’s work in proven leadership methods to encourage constructive public dialogue on American values and shared civic responsibility.Smith, a former executive in the financial services sector and now an award-winning writer, transitioned into the literary and educational space following a series of life-changing medical setbacks. After retiring from fieldwork, he completed graduate writing programs at the top of his classes, at Full Sail University and UCLA, later authoring multiple bestselling titles including his #1 Best Selling Influence in Action series.
On Liberation Day in 2025, Smith launched Junior Patriots, a nonprofit program that guides students through the process of writing and publishing books focused on civics, national history, and community engagement. The initiative aims to introduce young participants to research, writing, public-facing communication, and achievement. “Our goal is to help students develop confidence and understand how their ideas can contribute to their communities,” Smith said.
Wallace—who previously served in law enforcement, chaired more than 30 civic boards, and oversaw global operations across 200 countries during his tenure at UPS—has spent recent years researching cultural trends, leadership models, and workforce behavior. His latest book, American Madness: Waking Up to Woke, examines how rapidly evolving social dynamics are influencing workplace environments, public discourse, and organizational culture. “Strong societies require informed citizens and thoughtful dialogue,” Wallace noted. “Education and leadership play central roles in shaping that.”
Smith and Wallace have contributed forewords to each other’s publications and frequently collaborate on literacy-based outreach events. Their joint efforts emphasize reading, writing, leadership, and constructive civic participation—areas they believe can help bridge generational and community gaps.
Smith’s Junior Patriots
program continues to expand nationally, providing schools and youth organizations with structured writing guidance and mentorship opportunities. Wallace’s work, meanwhile, is often referenced in academic and corporate leadership circles for its focus on organizational culture and decision-making.
Both authors have achieved #1 Best Seller status across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Their combined catalogue includes works on leadership, business, marketing and sale, as well as civic themes.
About Robert J. Smith Productions
Robert J. Smith Productions, based in Winter Garden, Florida, develops content, branding, and communication programs for businesses and organizations. The company creates books, graphic publications, advertising content, and public relations material for clients ranging from Fortune 500 firms to small and mid-sized businesses.
For more information, visit Robert J. Smith online.
About Junior Patriots
Junior Patriots is a youth-focused literacy initiative that supports students in developing writing, research, and communication skills. The program publishes student-authored books and provides resources for educators seeking to promote civic learning and positive engagement.
About Ron Wallace
Ron Wallace is the retired President of UPS International and an author of books on leadership, culture, and organizational dynamics. Wallace previously served as a police officer and civic leader in multiple public service roles.
Media Contact
Robert J. Smith, MFA
Founder, Robert J. Smith Productions
Email: Robert@RobertJSmith.com
Phone: (407) 508-0200
Kent Clark
Press Office
Email: Press@RobertJSmith.com
