COL’s Dr. David Smith publishes first modern history of Georgia State University
September 22, 2005
Dr. David Smith Jr., assistant director of Career Service at Georgia State University's College of Law, has recently published the University's first modern history. Dr. Smith's dissertation and resulting book detail the roots of the University and its accomplishments from 1913-2002.
For the first time through this new publication, readers can learn about:
•the origin of the institution
•alums who came up with the idea for the institution
•former leaders
•first graduating class
•first female graduate
•first African American student
•first African American graduate, faculty and staff
•and much more
In addition, Dr. Smith has an upcoming exhibit that will be featured at the Carter Presidential Library and Museum February 25 through May 21, 2006, that will be the first of its kind in the world – "The African American Presidents: The Founding Fathers of Liberia, 1848-1904."
According to Dr. Smith, there were 10 African-American-born men who rose to the position of president of the American-founded nation of Liberia on the coast of West Africa from 1848-1904, and these men were also the first presidents on the African continent.
"This exhibit features recently commissioned oil paintings, black and white photography, photos of the descendants of these presidents, documents and much more about the life and times of each African American President." Dr. Smith explained. "At this point I am the only African American presidential researcher and scholar in the world focused exclusively on the 10 African American presidents, their administrations and their family members past and present."
Those interested are encouraged to visit the exhibit beginning early next year to learn about a part of American history that has never been taught before. The Carter Presidential Library and Museum is located at 441 Freedom Parkway in Atlanta.
"The College of Law is very proud of Dr. Smith's accomplishments and his current and upcoming exhibits," said Interim Dean Steven Kaminshine. "We hope everyone will take this outstanding opportunity to learn more about the University's history and the African-American Liberian presidents that Dr. Smith has researched so thoroughly and written about so well."