Angie Smith, of Chattanooga, was awarded Outstanding Master of Arts in Teaching Student in Middle Grades Education by the Augusta University College of Education.
Ms. Smith, who is being inducted into Phi Kappa Phi next month, enjoyed a great deal of academic success at Augusta University. But her favorite class was Language Arts Best Practices, taught by Dr. Christi Pace, in which her final project involved her whole family and dog in a video and rap performance.
“My kids really provided me with the support to do something that put me out of my comfort zone.
So, when it came time to actually present this in front of the class I was terrified, but my peers and Dr. Pace were very supportive in my efforts to present what I learned. It was such a positive way to end the term,” Ms. Smith said.
Ms. Smith didn’t stumble into her success. She created it. After some family upheaval, she and her younger brother landed with their stepfather, who she credits with creating a safe and loving home. But she also credits family members, coworkers, friends, former teachers, current professors, her children and her husband for providing encouragement and support to succeed.
“I have had a lot of support. In receiving this honor, I want people to know that no matter what you have endured, you can persevere. It won’t be easy; it’s not easy. But allow yourself permission to never dismiss what happened to you; let it be a stepping stone into showing later how far you have come,” Ms. Smith said.
Ms. Smith is the daughter of Mr. Gregory Matthews.