Smith family establishes scholarship for Bartlett city employees' children at University of Memphis

During the recent Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting in Bartlett, Tennessee, a significant announcement was made that highlights the community's commitment to education and honoring local legacy. The meeting, held on February 25, 2025, featured the introduction of the Paul and Shirley Smith Scholarship, aimed at supporting the children of city employees pursuing higher education at the University of Memphis.

Brian Smith, son of the late Paul Smith, who served as the Bartlett Fire Chief for 13 years, shared heartfelt remarks about his parents' dedication to the community. He emphasized their long-standing involvement in local initiatives, particularly his mother's nearly two-decade service on the Board of the Bartlett Parks and Recreation Commission (BPAC). The scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance to one child of a city employee each year, starting as a partial scholarship and gradually increasing to a full scholarship over time.

This initiative not only honors the Smith family's contributions to Bartlett but also aims to foster educational opportunities for future generations. Brian Smith expressed gratitude for the community's support and highlighted the importance of giving back, reflecting on his own experiences as a child of a city employee who benefited from a scholarship.

The meeting also included remarks from current Fire Chief Tommy Gaitley, who acknowledged the foundational changes implemented by Chief Smith during a transformative period for the fire department. The city proclaimed February 25, 2025, as Paul and Shirley Smith Scholarship Day, recognizing the enduring impact of their legacy on the community.

The establishment of this scholarship underscores Bartlett's commitment to education and community service, ensuring that the Smith family's dedication will continue to benefit local families for years to come. As the city looks forward to the scholarship's implementation, it stands as a testament to the values of support and generosity that define Bartlett.