Page 18 - Talladegan SP 4 Flipbook

A TALLADEGA LOVE STORY

When Mr. Leonard Smith ’58 discovered that the Mr. Smith that they had recently married and started a
Talladega College Choir desperately needed new robes, family.
he and his wife, Ms. Kathleen (Watson) “They were dating each other when my wife and
Smith ’58, promptly donated $25,000. I first met them, and they saw something
The Smiths, who met during their in us that inspired them. My wife and
freshman year at Talladega, I have been married for 59 years.
have seized opportunities to I told them how my brother Paul
positively impact the College (Rev. Dr. Paul Smith ’57) and I
for nearly 60 years. both met our wives at Talladega
One of their most memorable College.”
contributions was given in The book Listening for the Sound
1994 when Mr. Smith, who of the Genuine: Race, Religion
had just retired from his job and Renewal in the Life of Rev. Dr.
as an assistant principal at a Paul Smith by Hilda Hendrickson
Michigan high school, returned to shares some of the experiences the
Talladega to serve for one year as a Smith brothers had as students at Talladega
volunteer residence hall director and junior and reveals their love for the College.
varsity basketball coach. “I am so grateful for Talladega. It had such a profound
The Smiths have influenced countless Talladegans. During influence on my life, and I want to pay it forward by
homecoming one year, a young couple happily informed giving to the College,” Mr. Smith states.

Talladega College Choir Director Mr. William Mitchell and choir members wearing their new robes.