Clarke alumna inducted into ‘Hall of Achievement’

On Saturday, Sept. 26, Dr. Susan Smith, a 1967 graduate of W.T. Clarke High School, became the fifth person in the school’s history to be inducted into the Hall of Achievement with a special ceremony in her honor.

Clarke’s Hall of Achievement recognizes past Clarke graduates, living or deceased, who have demonstrated outstanding ability, leadership, character, and/or dedication, and whose lives and accomplishments served to inspire the Clarke community.

Smith was honored for her numerous contributions to the East Meadow School District. While in school, Smith was involved in every aspect of the Clarke community – including participation in four sports teams, the school’s chorus, and a service organization. In 1972, Smith returned to her alma mater to teach math. She also became the coach of Clarke’s softball, basketball, and bowling teams. Nine years later, Smith was appointed as the math chairperson at East Meadow High School, a position she held for 23 years.

Smith retired from the East Meadow School District in 2004 and is now an assistant professor at Molloy College, where she works with new teachers and teacher candidates who are changing their careers. Her mother, who wrote a beautiful letter detailing the many contributions and achievements throughout Smith’s life, nominated her to Clarke’s Hall of Achievement. The school’s Planning and Management Team (PMT) then confirmed her for the honor.

During the recognition ceremony, Clarke Principal Timothy Voels paid tribute to Smith and presented her with a special plaque in her honor. The celebration concluded with the unveiling of Dr. Smith’s name in the school’s Hall of Achievement.