Uncrowned Community Builders

Edna M. Smith was born in Wetumka, Oklahoma. She came from a large, loving family of nine children. Her parents were Lee Smith, a minister, and Nellie Quinn-Smith, a strong, Christian woman.

Edna attended Douglas High School in Wetumka, OK, and graduated in 1951. She attended Langston University and graduated in 1955 with a B.S. degree in Business Administration. In those days black students were not allowed to attend Oklahoma University, Oklahoma State University, and other white schools of higher learning. It was difficult for blacks to attend college at all, because of their lack of funds; and it was almost impossible for them to attend white colleges and universities because of their financial conditions and the color of their skin. Consequently, many, many black students enrolled at Langston University and received an excellent education. Langston University is an excellent school; then and now!

After graduating from Langston University, Edna moved to Hartshorn, a small town in Eastern Oklahoma and taught high school until schools were integrated. She enjoyed working with the young people, but at this point she realized that being a classroom teacher was not her life's purpose.

She then moved to Los Angeles, California and began working for the City of Los Angeles in the Accounting Department in 1957. Edna was very well known, admired, and respected by all department personnel, including the Mayor and Council Members. She received much enjoyment and gratification during her years of employment. After 32 years she retired from her position with the City of Los Angeles. She formed countless, meaningful friendships during her college years and employment years.

Edna moved to Oklahoma City, OK, in 1988. She always had high esteem and respect for Langston University. She is proud to be a product of Langston University. She has always been an active Alumni Member and served as President of Los Angeles Alumni Chapter. During 1990-1993, Edna worked on Langston's main campus as Alumni Director. During that time she toured with the University Choir as a chaperone and as liaison between the University and alumni.

Edna is a very unique person. She is unusually friendly and never meets a stranger. She is kind, generous, and very loquacious. She loves people. She started "Miss Edna's Kitchen", an event held the Friday before Langston's Homecoming game. The event allows the opportunity for Langston University alumni and friends to assemble, to eat delicious food, converse, and have a merry time. Her initial thought was to provide food and a place for out of town/state people to gather and socialize before the game on Saturday. It has since become a feast.

Each year she prepares food for 200-250 or more Langstonites and friends. It is amazing that no matter how many people go through the serving line, the food never runs out. People all across the United States look forward to attending this special event each year.

Edna is very family oriented. She delights in doing things for and with her family and friends. She creates reasons for her family to assemble. They really don't need an occasion to get together. A friend once said that they will just wake up one day and say, "The sun is shining, let's get together and cook and eat". He may have exaggerated somewhat, but he was pretty close to being factual.

Edna's son Kenneth, is married to the former Merrilyn Tims, whom he met while they were students at Langston University. They reside in Los Angeles, CA, with their three sons, Jonathan and twins Joshua and Jeremiah.

Edna is a faithful, active member of Tabernacle Baptist Church. She is also a member of the Colored Women Federated Association.