Cheryl Smith: From Seventh-Grade Newsletter to Award-Winning Journalist

Cheryl Smith is an award-winning journalist whose career has spanned over forty years. She has thrived throughout the rapid evolution of the journalism profession and talk radio only reinforces her status as a legend in the industry. 

I had the immense privilege and honor of speaking with the former owner, publisher and radio talk show host. Beginning with what started her career in journalism, her time at Paul Quinn College, her mentorship and much more. 

“It began in seventh grade,” Ms. Smith started with a smile as she answered my first question. “I put together a class newsletter at my school. That was my entrance. Then, when I went to high school, I took journalism my junior year.” That same year, she wrote a piece that her local Black-owned newspaper published as a feature story. She became a published reporter before she even graduated high school.

“I’ve just always loved to write. I love writers, and I know that there were many places where our stories were not told by people who looked like us.”

Cheryl Smith

When asked what some of her favorite moments in her profession were, she explained that she loved the camaraderie she built throughout her years. Whether speaking with those who held public office, or the students she mentored throughout the years, throughout her stint as a talk show radio host. She maintains that the personal connections and relationships she cultivated are what allowed her to branch out and tell stories that were previously swept under the rug.

“I’m not trying to be a celebrity, but I do work that is celebrated because it’s informative, enlightening, uplifting, educational, inspiring, and sometimes entertaining.”

Cheryl SMith

As to her advice to other Black girls considering a career in journalism, she told me that what people remember the most about any journalist is their word and work. That is why no matter what, good journalists have to honor their commitments. And determine what type of person they will choose to be. 

To highlight her point, Ms. Smith next recalled a story from her time at Paul Quinn College. She had to teach a photojournalism class. Only one problem: the institution had neither the materials nor facilities to support such a class. So, in response to the small hurdle, she took a leap and called her contacts. Together they devised a plan to ensure her students did not fall behind. Not just because she wanted her students to look the part, but because they needed to know the work. She insisted that they learned how to write compelling stories. As well as do the work to get them in the rooms that young college graduates need to be in.

“The shoulders that you are standing on expect that one day, whether you want them to or not, somebody is going to be standing on your shoulders.” I would be remiss if I didn’t share that I felt something between thrills and chills at the thought.

As we wrapped up our conversation, I asked what she wanted people to remember about Cheryl Smith. 

“I didn’t just try to do my best. I did my best with what I had and whatever I was able to gain. Living each day like it was another day to leave this place a better place than when I found it.” She wanted people to remember that she made her decisions because she is a “soldier without a sword.” She wanted to be a voice for her people even if some didn’t understand or agree with her decisions.

Then it clicked. Cheryl Smith holds the knowledge that keeps those around her captivated and eager to soak up any wisdom that she may give because she has always remained captivated and eager to soak up any wisdom that the people she comes across in the course of her extraordinary life and career may give. 

Lesson learned, Professor. 

Zahiyah Carter is a Gen Z writer based in Dallas. Her work focuses on topics that matter most to young people, from social issues and pop culture to technology and beyond.