Apr
25
Graduate and Local Entrepreneur to Speak at BGSU Firelands Commencement
April 25, 2011 | Leave a Comment
Huron, Ohio – On Friday, May 6, Richard P. “Dick” Smith will present the keynote address for Bowling Green State University Firelands College’s 26th Commencement Ceremonies.
Smith, a 1974 graduate of BGSU Firelands, and owner of Dick Smith Realty in Milan, has been a long-time advocate of the College.
“We are pleased to have Mr. Smith speaking to our students upon their graduation,” said BGSU Firelands Dean William Balzer. “As a graduate, his story is inspirational and his passion for education is infectious.”
Smith’s regard for the value of education began early in life. While serving in the US Air Force in Viet Nam, he was instrumental in leading a program for major repairs to the Don Bosco School and Orphanage. It was during this time that he established a reading program at the school.
After completing his tour of duty, Smith returned to the area, enrolled at BGSU Firelands, and earned an associate of arts in 1974. Smith was a member of the Society of the Flame, president of the Viet Nam Veterans Club, and student body president. As a student, he also received the Links to Progress Award.
Smith went on to a successful career in real estate and currently lives in Milan, operating Dick Smith Realty. His strong commitment to the community and BGSU is evident in his lifetime of service.
Smith is a past president of the Milan Chamber of Commerce and the Jaycees, a past council member for the Village of Milan, and a former board member of the Berlin/Milan Schools Citizenship and Education Foundation. He is also a life member of the VFW and Friends of Edison.
Smith has also maintained a close bond with his alma mater. He served on the BGSU Firelands College Advisory Board for ten years, was a member of the BGSU Continuing & Extended Education Advocates Board, and he currently serves on the BGSU Firelands Development Board. In 1997, Smith was awarded the Distinguished Alumnus Award for achievement in his vocation, service to his community and commitment to BGSU Firelands.
Most recently, Smith established the Richard P. “Dick” Smith BGSU Firelands Scholarship Endowment Fund which will provide financial support to students on an annual basis.
BGSU Firelands 26th Commencement Ceremonies will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 6, in the campus’ Cedar Point Center.
– 30 –