A Class Act

Whether it was a boss, mentor or teacher – most women had someone who helped them achieve goals.

May Smith, a federal employee for more than 65 years and past employee of the U.S. Air Force, Marine Corps, HUD and EPA, says it was a teacher who first gave her the confidence to make it in business. “In high school, I had a business teacher named Jimmie D. Richardson,” Smith recalls. “She was responsible for me being in the federal government.”

Richardson was determined to help Smith and five of her classmates succeed, though they couldn’t afford to attend college. “She made arrangements for the civil 

service commission to give us a test so we could get a job.” Smith made the highest grade and began working with the federal government as a typist in 1944. “To this day, at 85 years old, I always think of her when I have an assignment to do.”

Want more?

You can celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week by reaching out to a former instructor who instilled valuable knowledge and helped you get ahead. Teacher Appreciation suggests sending a handwritten note, gift basket or thoughtful card.

How are others honoring teachers? This January, the Creative Coalition held the 2011 Teachers Making a Difference Awards Luncheon, presented by Bing at the Sundance Film Festival. Celebrities who attended brought along the teacher who had influenced them most.

Bonus PINK Link: Find out more about Smith’s six-decade career with the government and what she learned along the way in our Top Woman of the Week exclusive profile.

By Caroline Cox

“I like a teacher who gives you something to take home
to think about besides homework.” Lily Tomlin