It’s Member on the Move time!

We are opening the month with Mr. Leroy Smith of Memphis, TN.
Smith is a ‘73 graduate of Jackson State University. He was an athlete and played football for the JSU Tigers.
Smith retired from the Commercial Appeal Newspaper as Circulation Sales Manager after 43 years of service. He started the newspaper’s hawker sellers distribution program to ensure people in low income areas could stay busy, out of trouble and support their families. He received the President’s Award, the highest award at the newspaper.

Smith currently volunteers as a Board member for Shelby Residential Vocational Services (SRVS) helping the organization to support individuals with disabilities through a variety of programs and services. He also serves as Trustee administrator for Old Nonconnah MB Church. During this pandemic, he set up the Free Conference Call to ensure members stayed connected. Occasionally, he does motivational speaking at schools and juvenile court.

Why did you choose JSU?
I was enrolled at Arkansas AM&N College (UAPB) on a football scholarship. My Biology teacher coach Ulysses McPherson received the head coaching position at JSU. On different occasions he would ask me to go to visit the campus. The football team, coaches, president John A. Peoples and students overwhelmingly showed me love. And I am grateful to God for the great education I received from Jackson State.

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
My senior year I was dormitory counselor for the football team. Because of our closeness some of them wanted special privileges. And not follow the rules. Some would play tricks on each other like pouring water under someone’s door or knocking on it and running away. I would have to talk to them about this behavior.

Favorite rival game to attend?
Southern University

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter?
It’s something about getting together for the same purpose that you still have love for JSU. Meeting all of our new young members makes you feel like you went to school together. With all of the diversity we learn from each other and demonstrate love and respect.

Please share any additional fun fact or information about yourself.
I have been married to Florida for 45 wonderful years. We have no biological children, however all children are ours. Florida is a graduate of Knoxville College and a very proud associate Life Member of JSU.