For Steve, the cultural arts were the vital expression of beauty and creativity. Nothing pleased him more than rendering quiet and generous support to both state-wide and regional activities. Steve represented our community for 15 years in both the executive and legislative branches of state government, serving as Representative to the General Court from 1963-1968; Executive Councilor in 1968; and State Senator from 1971-1978. He also held office in Plymouth town government and was a member of the Board of Directors of the Speare Memorial Hospital, the Plymouth Rotary Club, the area Chamber of Commerce, and the Squam Lakes Association. In addition he served as moderator of the Plymouth School District and the Plymouth Congregational Church. He was chairman of the board of the Pemigewasset National Bank at the time of his death in 1984.
Steve's family has made a leadership gift to the CAC and has agreed to the establishment of the Stephen W. Smith Recital Hall in that facility. The 180-seat recital hall will be on the ground floor of the facility, adjacent to the main auditorium (650 seat) and the experimental theater, off the main lobby. Strong financial support of the Stephen W. Smith Recital Hall Fund will honor a distinguished public servant, and will help achieve the fundraising goals for the CAC from the private segment of the campaign.
William I. Farrell, President of the College says, "Stephen Smith was a good friend of Plymouth State College. As a leader in the New Hampshire State Legislature and a prominent citizen in our own community, he advanced the cause of public higher education. He will be long remembered by the Plymouth State College community for his friendship and assistance."
