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Within the space of just a little more than one month, the College community has mourned the loss of two of its dearest friends, Dr. William W. Smith and his beloved wife, Gerry. The two passed away within weeks of each other. Long-time friends and generous benefactors since the 1980s, Bill and Gerry Smith were deeply committed to promoting the College and its unique program of Catholic liberal education in the Los Angeles area. A member of the Board of Governors since 1989, and its Chairman from 1991 to 2003, Dr. Smith guided the College through a successful five-year, $25 million campaign and, in 2001, into the start of a second, seven-year comprehensive campaign to raise $75 million to build out the campus and increase the College’s financial aid endowment. Five buildings were constructed on the campus during his tenure, student enrollment grew to near maximum, and the College’s endowment increased significantly. In 2003, a scholarship fund in honor of the Smiths was established. A founder of the Beverly Hills Clinic, Dr. Smith was the personal physician to many leaders in the entertainment and financial industries, some of whom, on the strength of his recommendation and sterling character, also became benefactors of the College. Before retiring from active medical practice in 1992, Dr. Smith was associated with St. John’s Hospital in Santa Monica as both a member of the staff and of its board of trustees. Says President Dillon, “The impact Bill and his wife, Gerry, have had on our college has been profound and lasting. We will be forever indebted to these dear friends for the critical part they played over many years in helping to ever more firmly establish Thomas Aquinas College. ‘Eternal rest, grant unto them, O Lord. May they rest in peace.’ ” -- Qtrly Newsletter, Spring 2007 |
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