The Spelman Community Gives Praise for Dr. Jane Smith

Verbena Brown Cummings, C’79
Dr Jane Smith was our role model. In 1975, we sat in , as freshmen students for a woman president at Spelman and she was first on our list. I am saddened by our loss because just her presence gave us so much hope and inspired me to do for Spelman College. Dr. Jane is Spelman College and Spelman College will always be because she was and loved her so much. Our angel will always be with us. Love always.

Winter Beaton
A woman of poise and wisdom!!! She will be truly missed! I met Dr. Smith through one of my mentors. She inspired me to join NCNW and the First Gens scholars program! I volunteered with her LEADS conference. I enjoyed visiting her office on my lunch breaks to chat! She was sooo sweet. My sincere condolences.

Jessica Boston Davis
Dr. Smith had a profound impact on me as Spelman student, and as a leader after Spelman. I was a student of Dr. Smith's when I was a member of the WEL Program in 2007. It is because of Dr. Smith that I had the confidence to apply to Harvard,  where I later went on to earn my doctorate, after Spelman. I am the leader I am today because of Dr. Smith. May she rest in peace.

Pamela Pryor, Price High School, C'65; Emory University, C'69; 70G
Such a wonderful, giving, inspiring and motivational spirit and life. We were together in so many opportunities. She will be greatly missed.

Yolanda Watson Spiva, Ph.D.
My heart goes out to Dr. Smith’s family. I had the pleasure of working with her for many years as the meeting planner for the Women of Color Conference. Dr. Smith was an amazing woman who greatly impacted my life. Although she was a client, we developed a wonderful friendship and I’ll miss her dearly.

Kassandra Jolley
I have known Dr. Smith since 1988. She is the embodiment of a Spelman woman, and sought to share the values and ethos of Spelman womanhood everywhere she went. God bless Dr. Smith and her legacy!

Raven Carnes
Wow, Dr. Smith! I will never forget an interaction with her where randomly she just grabbed my hand and would say, “It’s gonna work out” and smiled. She didn’t know me from anyone else, but I guess she knew I needed to hear that. God bless her and thank you, God for loaning us an angel.

Pamela Hayling Hoffman
Dr. Jane E. Smith has been my dear friend for over 40 years. Together, we developed criteria and selected the 25 charter members of the Dogwood City Chapter of The Links Incorporated, which today has donated well over a million dollars to the Atlanta community; and is today, a preeminent chapter of 92 talented women committed to “servant leadership” as was Dr. Smith. Her leadership, grace, smile and dedication to whatever mission she undertook, sets a benchmark for us all.

Wylene Branton Wood

"OURS For Jane Elaine"
December 2020
By Wylene Branton Wood, Harper High C’67 and Spelman College, C’71

“I belong to you.” That’s what you said. Our high school homecoming queen. Tender voice for connection, closeness, a warm embrace for your school community, a high school vision of beauty and grace.

You were different from us yet always the same, drawing us in, all the us’es of your life, valuing and empowering us, making us proud.

You will always be ours, not an object we possess, but as part of us, perhaps the best of us, united with us in ideals and aspirations.

Your love enhanced your family, a culture, a people, a nation. Your love sought learning and opportunity for others.

Our bold and gracious queen, we bowed, then, to you as we do now in witness and acclaim.

Oh, Harper’s gold and white!

How proud we were of your ascension, and with you, we rose, too. And then came Spelman, where you soared.

“I’m all yours,” you said, and it was true. Your life was example and proof.

You, the chosen one are chosen yet again. A higher crowning now, commending you to the ages, but you are ours still in memory and love.

Sharon Milligan
Say “hello” to Janice Hale.

Tony S.
I may have never known you personally, but the fights you braved on behalf of women of color is something for which I am forever grateful. The fact that you were able to fight for so many while still keeping a good heart and infectious laugh is truly divine. May God welcome you home with open arms and a job truly well done for being such a faithful servant

Caitlin Maureen S. , Proud Spelman Class of 2020 Graduate
Your last four years at Spelman were my first four years at Spelman. You told me how much you loved our Class of 2020 and how this will be the year you retire. Thank you for believing in -- not just me but your younger sisters. You are the testimony of what true sisterhood can do --  it can transform, inspire, uplift and rebuild. Thank you. You are the best Spelman sister and mentor I could have ever prayed for. With love,

Jennifer "Jaki" Johnson
Dr. Jane Smith, a woman of grace, eloquence, and full of leadership. When she spoke, chills ran throughout your body because of the way she magnified the room with her voice. She was an inquisitive speaker, leader, educator, teacher, and mentor. She was a major part of my Spelman experience and introduced me to so many dynamic opportunities. It is because of her leadership and mentorship that I am the woman I am today. She gave us her voice, her heart, her love, and her soul as we became Spelman women that would change the world. Thanks for everything, Dr. Jane Smith. I love you, we love you, we honor you, and we thank God for you. ❤❤🙏❤❤

Your WEL alum, SWEPT alum, and Spelman mentee, Jennifer "Jaki" Johnson. You are always and forever in our hearts, Spelman Blue 💙💙💙💙

Kamryn Addison

I am so honored to have met Dr. Smith during my journey at Spelman! Such a sweet, humble, and outgoing spirit. She will be dearly missed.

Cheryl Merideth Alexander
Dr. Smith, you will truly be missed, but you left your mark everywhere you went. Thank you for all you did for Spelman and the community. I recall meeting you as a young girl with my parents, Charles and Ann Merideth, and saying to myself, “She is a pretty lady and very smart too.” My parents treasured their friendship with you. May you rest in heaven for your Legacy will live on here on earth.

Latriecia Brown
Dr. Jane Smith, I was always in awe of your beauty, your poise, and your intelligence. I always said to myself, "I want to be a dynamic and impactful alumna like Dr. Smith and look good while doing it :-). Your life, your light and your legacy will be felt for generations. Thy noble work is done, Spelman sister. Rest peacefully. Love you so much!

AmberLace Moore

I will miss Dr. Smith so much. I first met Dr. Smith in 2009 when I first entered Spelman as a Bonner Scholar. As a Bonner Scholar, I worked closely with the LEADS office and got to learn so much including poise, professionalism and leadership from Dr. Smith. May her legacy live on. Rest peacefully.

Shakevia Robinson
Beautiful spirit! She changed lives with every word she spoke. The atmosphere was changed with her presence.

Alyson Dorsey, C’2002
This is such a sad day for Spelman. Dr. Jane was my former VP and Spelman sister. She was a history maker and advocate for Black women. She was a leader beyond the gates of Spelman. Look her up. I remember her beyond her work. She had amazing stories, was a great leader, and loved children. My kiddos would run to greet her because they knew she loved them. She loved having fun, telling it like it was, and enjoying life. Rest well, my Spelman sister.

 

Rev. Florence A. Bankston
I met Dr. Jane my freshman year at Spelman! She was so kind and adopted me as her little sister. Her smile radiated with a warmth that was contagious! Dr. Jane always had a listening ear and sound advice. While her loss saddens us all, God has gained an Angel! My prayers are with her family, friends and loved ones! Know that God is with you and He will keep you in your time of grief!

Shinelle Caldwell
While a student at Spelman College, I had the pleasure to work under Dr. Smith during the Women 2 Women Conference. Dr. Smith was the epitome of grace and style. She served as an inspiration to me and I am honored to have been in her presence. Thank you! Rest well, Dr. Smith. My condolences to the family.

Deidra L. Fryer

I honor today a phenomenal True Blue Spelman Woman. Jane E. kept her hand on the pulse of Spelman College. I could just call to ask her how are we doing? I will miss our conversations. At NCNW, she would always invite me to important functions. She always introduced us as semi relatives because our grandfathers and family knew each other. They both held pastorates in the same church in Albany, Georgia with her grandfather succeeding mine. Rest in Peace, Jane E.
This Spelman Sister will truly miss you. "Undaunted by the Fight," but now "Thy noble work is done!"

Kiara Hinton, C'2015
Dr. Smith was a true light for me throughout my Spelman journey. When I met her my freshman year, she made me feel at home even though I was miles away from home. Her warm and caring personality pushed me in the right direction during times where I felt unsure about what to do next.

We shared laughs, stories, tears and even talked about our favorite shows and movies. I loved visiting her office because I knew I would leave with a smile on my face even if she had to provide a bit of tough love. I’m saddened to learn of her battle with cancer, but I know just by knowing her that she put up a good fight. I am praying for her family. Thanks, Dr. Smith for everything you did for me while I was at Spelman and thanks for always having my back. I will miss you and I love you.

Rhonda Benjamin Bland
Dr. Smith was the adviser for the Class of 1979 for four years. We absolutely loved her. She was encouraging and warm. She was Spelman to so many of us. My condolences to her family.💙💙💙💙

Dr. Carolyn Marzette Bolivar
I was introduced to Jane the day before arriving at Spelman in 1964. Her dad and mine were Morehouse friends. Jane was extremely cordial from that day until graduating in 1968. I expressed to her my difficulty in Spanish and Jane tutored me for the final exam which I passed with a “B.” Jane helped promote my book, “Swing Lowe,” as a beautiful sisterly gesture. I will miss her kindness and spirit of congeniality.

Divinity Roxx
Thank you, Mom, for leading by example. Your work is done. Take your rest. We will carry your torch forward.

Deborwah Faulk C'2014
A dynamic woman, a Spelman woman. There is no easy way to quantify the number of lives Dr. Jane Smith has shaped. Not only has she impacted the world directly through her interactions with and support of students and mentees, but all who they will go on to reach. She has undoubtedly changed countless lives of women and girls for the better. I personally am grateful to Dr Jane Smith for having impacted the trajectory of my life through LEADS, the WEL program, and by way of her being just her --- a true (and quite fashionable) leader. Rest on, your legacy will do the rest. In sisterhood.

Shalimar Brown
I was truly touched by Dr. Smith. I gravitated naturally towards her as she had energy that commanded any space she was in. She was such a pillar in the Spelman community and I don’t think my experience would have been complete without her. She was more than a mentor, but she was a true sister and she will be missed.

Delores Crockett
What a joy to this world was Jane Smith. Her loss is truly devastating. I am grateful to have been a part of her life circle for many years starting in the 60s at Spelman. When Jane saw you, she looked at you. She didn’t look at you looking at her. Her unique, smiling, and genuine presence will be sorely missed.

Keith A. Webb
We have lost a legend; a she-ro! From the moment I met Jane in 2005, I knew our relationship would be unique and special. I always learned so much from our interactions, and I loved her smile and laughter. I will be forever grateful for the time spent in her presence. GOD bless you Sista. You will be missed.

Novice Johnson
Jane was truly a role model and a friend. During my years at Spelman, I became the babysitter for her sons Clinton and Chad. I will forever cherish my memories of Jane, and will always be a phone call away for "dem Browning boys!" Smiling through my tears.

Imani J. McClendon
Working for Dr. Smith for about two years was life changing. Coming into Spelman I knew two names: Beverly Tatum and Jane Smith. I am beyond grateful that we found each other and learned from one another through countless hours on and off campus. My favorite memory is her walking me through negotiating a higher salary for my post undergraduate full-time job, in which I succeeded. Because of her and countless other staff members, I graduated from the WEL program prepared to tackle any obstacle and enter any room. Her poise, elegance, smile and laughter will stay with me always. To a true Gem and Queen of a of a red lip. You will be forever missed and loved.

Jainaba Fye Seckan
Dr. Jane Smith, there aren’t enough words. I wish I had thanked you more. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for your love, encouragement, and guidance. Thank you for your warmth, your laughter, and grace. I am honored to have been one of your WEL scholars. Rest In Peace.

Mikki Harris C‘97
Jane was one of the mentors for the Corporate Women’s Roundtable in 1996, and it was an honor to be in her presence. She looked out for us, while being a role model as we looked to find pathways to corporate spaces. I have adored Jane for 24 years, and will continue to honor her by giving back to students in the way she did for us. Rest in Power, Jane.

Michelle S. Hite
Thy noble work is done,” dear sister. I will remember you with fondness always. Rest well 💙

Avis D. Graves
I will never forget her gracious smile and consistent encouragement.

Jaleesa Vincent C’2017
Dr. Smith was a part of the joy at Spelman College for me. Every encounter I had with her left me smiling because of her loving spirit and infectious smile. Every time I heard her speak, she left a mark on me with her charges to us as Spelman Women. I will always remember her love, wisdom, and the joy her presence brought. Dr. Smith, your noble work has been done and you will be missed dearly. Thank you for being a part of my joy and love at Spelman. Rest In Peace. 💙

Bobby L. Fuse, Jr. C'74
Dr. Smith's footsteps and my footsteps crossed so many times and in so many ways around the King Center, the Inroads Project, and as a parent of some very fine students. We mourn a trailblazing woman of God.

Carmen Kelly C'79
Dr. Smith was a champion for ALL of us from the beginning! As my freshman year adviser, her vibrancy made you feel empowered, and ready to meet the challenges on our new journey. I recall my mother was so impressed by Dr. Smith and believed her daughter would have incredible opportunities to shine as a young Black woman. She will be missed dearly. Rest gently, Queen.

Victoria Winslow
In the spring of 2012, I ran into Dr. Jane Smith in the parking lot. I was rushing to my residence hall to decide which teaching offer to accept after graduation. She was so kind as she listened to me and reassured me with a smile. Yesterday, I became a National Board Certified Teacher. I’m convinced my path would have looked much different than this had it not been for that serendipitous moment.

Tom Castro
Jane was one of the first people I met when I become a Trustee at Spelman. She took me under her wing and taught me about the Spelman sisterhood. We became friends and her warmth and passion for the students inspired me. What a wonderful legacy Jane leaves! She served her community and all of Atlanta with grace and charm. She indeed never met a stranger. May she Rest In Peace and may the example she set lead us all forward.

Elizabeth Willis Brown
God bless you, Jane. You have joined the ancestors and now sit with the One who Saves.

Brianna Mason
As a first generation student, I was extremely nervous about Spelman. Joining Dr. Smith’s First Gen Leads Program gave me the guidance and support I needed. Her love was so pure, and she cared so much about literally everyone’s little life. We love you, Dr. Smith 💙. It is more than a blessing to have experienced your presence!

Khalida Ali
It's amazing to see the number of people that Dr. Jane Smith impacted in such profound ways. She had a unique ability to make every person feel special and important. Dr. Smith was an amazing mentor and sponsor to me (before I even knew what that really meant). I'm so appreciative of her guidance, advice and leadership. Rest in Peace, Dr. Smith.

Patricia Varnell
My sincere condolences to the family and friends for the loss of a life well lived.

 

Sandra McMullen
Jane was a beautiful spirit who would light up a room with her smile. I am so grateful that our paths crossed and that we became friends. I will miss her but I know that she is at rest. My love and condolences to her family and loved ones.

Joey Womack
The world has suffered a tremendous loss. I first met Dr. Smith in 2018 as we launched the Spelpreneur 10 Day Startup Competition. Though I knew about Spelman, I didn't really KNOW about Spelman. By her action, Dr Smith showed me what it meant to be a Spelman woman, and was an excellent example of Spelman culture. She explained to me that Spelman students were EXPECTED to be leaders, excellent communicators, and to speak out on social justice issues. Her energy was infectious, and she used it to create change. I could tell she had high standards, and, although our program was a success by all accounts, she gave me constructive criticism on how to make it even better. I can only imagine the impact she made on people she was around for longer periods of time.

Joy A. Hamer

Elynor Williams
Jane was my "little sister" at Spelman. And, although we were the same age, she never let me forget that I was her "BIG" sister. I will always remember her engaging smile, her contagious laughter and her prevailing warmth that surrounded anyone who came into her presence. I feel blessed to have known her. May she rest among the angels.

Traci Bransford, C'88
Sending many blessings to the family of dear Dr. Smith who was always such a light. May she rest in peace and power.

Myra (Brown) Herring, C'2005
I will truly miss Dr. Jane Smith. She was such a beautiful spirit with such great passion. I love the work that she did with the LEADS program and Women of Color Conference. Her legacy will live on throughout these programs. All of my love to the family.

Selah S. Johnson
My heart is heavy. I learned so much from Dr. Jane Smith, C'68. I got to know her as part of the Women of Excellence Leadership (WEL) Series. I kept in touch after graduation, and she would answer all my emails immediately. She never stopped being there for me, and I'm sure for so many other people, especially my Spelman Sisters. Being mentored by the president emeritus of the Nation Council of Negro Women, was such an unworthy honor, you bestowed upon me. May you rest in peace. I love you dearly Dr. Smith. Thank you for everything.

Bennie Chaires-Mosby
Jane was my dear childhood friend and made a significant contribution to the city of Atlanta. She will be dearly missed, may she RIP.

Gena Ashe
Jane embodied everything that makes Spelman so dear. Her presence will be missed for years to come.

Arienne Jones
Like so many of my Spelman sisters, the thought of Dr. Jane E. Smith as an ancestor strikes me as surreal. As a WEL Scholar, Dr. Smith once tasked my cohort with identifying and ranking our priorities. I ranked professional and academic endeavors as my top aims and my personal life as virtually non-existent. Dr. Smith looked at me and told me that I needed to learn balance. That piece of advice resonates with me now, both because it's a lesson I'm still learning, but (and more importantly) because it's something that I now realize Dr. Smith had perfected.

Dr. Smith was the personification of every marvelous thing about Spelman and Black womanhood. I pray that she rests peacefully in the knowledge that her life and legacy of love continues on through her family and everyone who had the great fortune of meeting her.

 

Fran Phillips-Calhoun
Dr. Jane E. Smith is unforgettable. Her radiant smile, gracious manner and warm personality were unmatched. It was an absolute joy to know and work with Jane on Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. business and Spelman-Morehouse initiatives. I thank God for letting our paths cross. My sincere prayers and condolences are extended to her sons and extended family.

Dr. Ashlei Bell Haskell
Simply, I am so sorry.  Dr. Jane was a kind and loving role model for me and countless women. Although she lives on in the lives of her children and in the lives of those into whom she imparted indelible wisdom and fond memories, this world is a little less bright without her in it. She is loved and will be sorely missed!

Dr. Carolyn Walker Hopp, C’69
From the moment I met Jane, I felt her kind and loving spirit. She lit up a room. She leaves a legacy of dedication to and love of Spelman. Those whose lives she touched truly know the power of the pursuit of excellence. Well done, Dr. Smith. Well done.

Susan Johnson
Jane was such a force! I first met her when she was early in the process of her visioning for the LEADS program. She grew it into a powerful catalyst for women’s leadership. Her vision and passion were so admirable and impacted me greatly. Peace & Blessings to all who knew her.

Laura Eley
Because of Dr. Smith, I fully realized my leadership. She told me that she had been watching me and could tell the power I held from the background. Being an introvert, this meant so much to me. Without her, I wouldn't have had the confidence to enter my career after Spelman unapologetically ready to effect change. I love and will miss her dearly, but I'm SO appreciative that God graced us with her because she could create light in the darkest room. Deepest condolences to her loved ones.

 Jacqueline Rocker-Brown, C'69
Jane was a visionary with invaluable gifts.One was leadership and insight that advocated on behalf of "us" as Sisters of Blackness.She stood sentry to Spelman's community in a fierce manner and heartfelt love. May she rest in God's glory and Love. My condolences are sent to her family as they "walk her up the stairs!"

Eleanor Ross
Jane is a part of the fabric of my legacy quilt. She helped open doors through which I walked and created a beautiful tapestry of service. Thank you and may you RIP.

Lani V. Jones
Dr. Smith's bright smile and motivational lectures on the "advancement of our people," will be missed. Thank you for giving unconditionally.

Pamela Arnette Broom
When I arrived at Spelman in 1974, I had the great fortune to enroll in Dr. Smith's class. She was a young professor that emanated passion and style. I was carrying a lot of pain because of the violent death of my dad. She reached out to me in such a profound and loving way and inspired me to courageously journey through my years at Spelman. Rest in love and grace, Dear Sister!

Holly Marie Raindrop
What can I say? I met Dr. Smith as an Inroads intern back in the early 80s. She was a dynamic leader that inspired me as well as the other interns to become our best selves. I was impressed with her innate leadership abilities and I am forever grateful to have entered the program during her tenure as the managing director. May she rest from her labor.

Cathy Henry Rodgers, C'80
I was saddened to hear of the passing of our Spelman Sister, Dr. Jane E. Smith. As I read Dr. Smith's accomplishments, I reflected on my freshman year at Spelman in 1976. What was to come was a very special connection for our class: Dr. Smith was named as our freshman adviser! From the very beginning, she captured our hearts -- she had such an infectious smile!

Wherever she went, she lit up the room. Freshman year is often a myriad of highs and lows, and a time of new beginnings. We immediately connected,and Dr. Smith had an open door to chat and offer encouragement. The Class of 1980 felt a special bond, because she embraced us as if she had known us forever. I would later reconnect with Dr. Smith following her appointment as chief executive of the National Council of Negro Women. During a break from work, I ran into Dr. Smith outside of her office on Pennsylvania Avenue. It was freshman year revisited. We literally acted like kids on a summer day! Dr. Smith you were a visionary, empowering women here and abroad. We salute you. Heaven has indeed gained an Angel!

Teri McClure
When I think of Dr. Jane Smith, one word comes to mind -- class. She was a true woman of class, dignity, grace and humility with a fire burning deep inside. That fire resonated through those inquiring eyes and that beautiful smile. Thank you for making our world a better place. Your impact will be felt for years to come.

Stacey Mason
Dr. Smith was a wonderful woman and a leader of women. Her beautiful light was undeniable. I participated in her Women of Excellence Leadership (WEL) Series and still remember her words on the power in mantras and brands for personal and professional development. Dr. Smith will be truly be missed, but her lessons and the love she poured into those she met, and the Spelman community, will last forever.

Kim Jones
I am so grateful for the short time I got to know Dr. Jane Smith, butt her kindness and friendship will last a lifetime in my heart.

 
Debra Branton, C'79
Jane, you are represented by legions. You are an original influencer. You have been a friend, mentor, role model, professor, employer, sister, protester, advocate, etc. In Atlanta, at Spelman, Atlanta University, King Center, Carter Center, we crossed paths. Legions are better because of you and we all are more whole because of you. I love you. I will honor and remember you forever. Love, Debbie Branton (79)

 

Allison Richard
Thank you Dr. Smith for your passion and indelible legacy.

Remington Wiley, C’2010|
Dr. Jane Smith 💙

Dr. Smith was a tremendously special woman. I met her my sophomore year at Spelman and I have been inspired by her since. Although she is no longer with us, her legacy is present in corporate offices, non-profit organizations and classrooms around the world via all the lives she touched. Dr. Smith, I love you and you will be missed!

Hattie Dorsey
The radiance of your smile is now on your face as God welcomes you into the gates of heaven. You will be missed by so many of us who called you 'friend."

Delories Epps Horton
I will always cherish our visits when I brought clothes to the Spelman student clothes close (My Sister's Closet). 

Anitra. N. Manning, Ed.D.
I traveled with the hope of meeting Jane in 2006 when I had the honor of leading the design and execution of women's leadership programming at Girl Scouts of the USA. I'd observed Jane's work for years and wanted her and a few other well-regarded researchers and practitioners dedicated to the women's community building to attend an Invitational Leadership Conference at our international conference center with the goal of supporting us in creating a more expansive delivery model. Jane came and greatly influenced the discussion as I knew and hoped that she would.

She really wanted to meet Frances Hesselbein which was my honor to facilitate at Frances' offices on another occasion (I wish that could find that picture!) I subsequently, went to the Spelman Women of Color Conference at the Cobb Galleria that year where I was able to speak with Jane more and let her know that I really had been soaking up everything that she was doing and that her approaches influenced the work I led at Meredith College. When asked, she came up to to Meredith to speak at a conference that I organized. Years later, I left the social sector for a private sector job in Atlanta--a job that I learned of because of Jane's amazingly vast network.

Jane guided my thinking about the move to Atlanta and once I was here she took me under her wing, dubbing me as her "little sister." Now, Jane was the exact same age as my mother, but Jane let those barriers go and we talked about any and everything over dinners, social events, and over the phone. I had a friend in her. And had one until one day we couldn't speak any more. When she shared her diagnosis with me I was crestfallen. But when her son reached out, I knew that our friendship in its then-form would change forever.

That weekend, I went to a lake near my home and prayed and cried immensely. She was leaving. She is now a regal and angelic ancestor. I will miss her friendship, her wisdom, and the way her laughter refreshingly impacted others. Her laughter always had a hint of an "everything is going to be okay" message with it. I hear it now as I'm typing this. Jane was living Black history. She is important to the story of Black women in America. The organizations she has lead, the lives she has touched, the impact that she has had is so vast. I'm not sure that it is quantifiable. But I do know that she is being rewarded for her loving service to her sisters and humanity. May God and His rich peace continue to be with Clint, Chad, the family, and all who have known Jane. Love you, Sister Jane! z

With love, Anitra --  Your "Little Sister"

Gwendolyn W. Garrison
Dr. Jane E. Smith --  a breath of fresh air and sunshine who had a smile that engulfed the whole world. I absolutely adored her for he genuine honestly, and her academic and leadership ability. I prayed that God would mark my unborn child (which I was carrying at the time) with those same attributes. I will always love and remember my Beautiful Jane and the legacy of her smile.

Kenya K. Davisz
What a brilliant and aware leader that harnessed Joy for Change. My condolences to the family. She was the first homecoming queen for Charles Lincoln Harper High School and I was the last. I am honored to walk in her footsteps as I endeavor to change the world. I currently lead the D.C. Human Trafficking Taskforce and serve as an AUSA in Washington, D.C. focusing on child exploitation and human trafficking cases.

Janet Lane Martin, C'72
Fare Thee Well, my dear Spelman Sister until we meet again on the other Shore! Ashe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aliyvia Pope
We just a lost an iconic Spelman woman. Her style, her presence, her influence, her leadership and her mind. She embodies everything a Spelman woman is. You will be truly missed Dr. Smith. Thank you for everything you gave to Spelman.
 

Regina F. Graham
Sad to learn the legendary Dr. Jane E. Smith was called home yesterday. I’ll never forget when she selected me as a junior to be a part of WEL and how she believed in me from day one. She was a class act full of life, love and wisdom. @SpelmanCollege won’t be the same without her. 💙😢

Aspen Clemons
I remember how proud Dr. Smith was at our @SpelmanCollege pinning, Class day, and during our march through the arch ceremony. We’d always joke about how excited we were to be able to reunion with her (3s & 8s). This one is tough 😔

Patricia Shipp
My deepest condolences to the family! May God continue to lift you all up!

Dionne C. Griffiths
I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Smith at the Louisville Chapter of NAASC, Spelman in the Bluegrass Awards program in Louisville, Kentucky a few years ago. I've always appreciated her positive energy, her career path, and her leadership. She was a bright light. She will truly be missed.

Janice Robinson Boger
Dr. Jane Smith was my mentor and my friend. She was so encouraging to me when I was the student government vice president my junior year at our beloved Spelman and student government president my senior year. You felt as though your initiatives were Dr. Smith's because of her gracious support. It didn't matter when I would see Dr. Smith after graduation, she always greeted me with that infectious smile followed by the question, "What are you doing now?" I never wanted our conversations to end because she always made me feel like I was doing the right thing and doing it well. Enjoy Heaven, my friend. Your rest is well deserved.

Valerie Montgomery Rice
Life is meant to be lived. That’s what I remember when I think of Dr. Jane Smith. Such a strong supporter of women. Her light will continue to shine a path for each of us. Best, VMR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Philippa Ellis
Dr. Jane Smith’s legacy is forever etched in my heart and mind. She was always the most amazing advocate of leadership, mentorship and sisterhood. I am so glad to have crossed paths with her during our involvement with the Leadership Institute for Women of Color Attorneys. Gone too soon, but never forgotten.

Ralph Fench
I’m so sorry for your loss. I worked with Mrs. Smith for over 20 years. She was such a pleasure to work with and always made sure that everyone was treated equally. She will be missed dearly.

Shelese Lane
A Phenomenal Educator, Leader, Mentor, and Friend! You will forever be missed and never forgotten. Rest in Heaven.