Fort Valley State University has received $5.8 million, from the estate of alumnus Pastor Eddie D. Smith Sr. and wife Martha Smith, the largest philanthropic gift in the university’s history, marking a significant investment in the continued growth and success of the institution and the scholars it serves.
As a two-time graduate of Fort Valley State University, Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 1968 and master’s degree in the same field in 1971. He maintained a lasting connection to the institution that helped shape his educational journey. Through a gift from his estate, he extends that commitment to future generations of Wildcats.
“This gift represents an extraordinary investment in the future of Fort Valley State University and, most importantly, in our students,” said FVSU President Paul A. Jones, Ph.D. “We are grateful to Eddie and Martha Smith for believing in the mission of this institution and recognizing the impact that FVSU has on the lives of our students, our communities and the state of Georgia.”
Presented to the university by Kenneth Moye, executor of the late Smith family estate, this transformative giftwill support key university priorities, including academic excellence and student success, designed to strengthen the student experience and position FVSU for continued success.