Allen Williams (left) congratulates Spencer C. Smith.
SMITH RECOGNIZED BY WAGENER-SALLEY HIGH SCHOOL
WAGENER, SC… Wagener-Salley High School alumni recently named the Agricultural Education building on the campus in honor of Spencer C. Smith of Wagener, a distinguished agricultural instructor prior to his retirement some years ago. The facility is now known as the “ S.C. Smith Agricultural Education Building”.
Mr. Smith began his teaching career at Wagener in 1947 and taught there for 35 years. He possessed the unique ability to bridge the gap between the university and local agriculturalists by providing assistance in understanding and implementing advancements in crop and livestock production. He also became well known for his ability to teach agricultural equipment maintenance and repair.
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“One of the most respected men in the Wagener community, Mr. Smith’s life epitomizes the importance of agriculture and he inspired his students to possess a similar appreciation for the natural world around them,” said Allen Williams, Agricultural Education instructor at Wagener-Salley High School at the present time. “His skill at making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success is what most of his former students remember and appreciate about him,” Mr. Williams added.
Mr. Smith pioneered the involvement of FFA members and Young Farmer-Agribusiness leaders in sponsoring and conducting top-of-the line Horse Shows which led to the establishment of the SC Horse Show Association.
Frank R. Stover of Pelion, retired state director of Agricultural Education, said Spencer was always available to assist with statewide agriculture projects throughout his career. “I know of no one who has done more for his students and community than Spencer Smith,” Mr. Stover added.
Mr. Smith was selected and recognized as one of the most Outstanding Agricultural Educators in South Carolina in the twentieth century by the AGRI-BIZ magazine edited by John W. Parris, state director of public affairs for Agricultural Education.
A graduate of Clemson University with a BS Degree in Agricultural Education, Mr. Smith also did graduate work at the University of South Carolina.
Mr. Smith is married to the former Lelline Crout of Perry, SC, and they have two daughters and three grandchildren.