SWU Announces Commencement Speaker
CENTRAL, S.C. - LaCheryl Smith is a transformational leader with a progressive career as an educator in tandem with 22 years of coaching in competitive high school and collegiate basketball programs. Ms. Smith holds a B.S. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, a M.Ed. from Southern Wesleyan University, and a post graduate Education Specialist Degree from Arkansas State University.
Beginning her career in the classroom at elementary and middle schools in Greenville and Oconee Counties, Ms. Smith joined the staff at the Legacy Early College High School in 2013 as the Assistant Athletic Coach and then Dean of the Early College. She became Principal of the Legacy Early College High School in 2018, producing the highest high school graduation rate in Greenville County Schools the following year.
Ms. Smith’s personal motto, “If I can help someone along the way, then my living is not in vain”, is reflected in her coaching style. Coach Smith has proudly served as Head Coach at her alma maters, Hillcrest High School and Southern Wesleyan University, as well as coached in renowned programs at Southside and Wade Hampton High Schools and Furman University. In addition to building championship teams, she continuously developed all-conference and full-scholarship players with 100% graduation rates.
LaCheryl Smith is a native of Fountain Inn, SC, proud daughter of Lee and Mamie Smith, and an active member of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Simpsonville, SC. In addition to her professional work, Ms. Smith is the owner of Upstate Hoops Ministries, founder of Carolina Shock Elite travel basketball team, and a regularly sought-after guest speaker at schools, churches, and programs around the state.
“We are so honored to have LaCheryl as our commencement speaker this May. She is an inspiration to everyone she meets, and as an alumnus, her example of how to live a life of purpose and faith will equally inspire each graduate in these ceremonies. This will be a commencement address our students will never forget”, exclaimed Dr. Todd Voss, SWU President.
Southern Wesleyan University has put in place Covid-19 safe graduation plans for its two ceremonies divided by the alphabet; the first for last names beginning with A-L is at 9:30 am and the second for M-Z will be at 2:30 pm.
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused, faith-filled community that offers inventive learning experiences. The university endeavors to prepare its students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ. For details about degree programs, go online to swu.edu.