Dr. Robert T. Smith Honored with Trailblazer Award
Dr. Robert T. Smith, affectionately known as “Pastor Bob”, was recently honored with the Trailblazer Award at the 9th Annual Jewel of the Nile Gala in recognition of his outstanding dedication and service to Wilbert F. Mays Seventh-day Adventist School in Teaneck, New Jersey. This award highlights Dr. Smith’s enduring commitment to Adventist Christian education and acknowledges the profound impact of his leadership and advocacy on the school and its surrounding community.
The program featured a stirring musical performance by the students, who sang the entire Sound of Music, and a powerful message from guest speaker and vocalist Dr. Whittley Philpps. In addition to Dr. Smith’s honor, the evening celebrated other distinguished awardees, including Parris Terry and Orange Jane Bell (Community Service Award), Sheryl Richards and Dr. Claudette (Educator of the Year), and Natalie B. McKenzie of The Whole Woman along with Officer Robert Gloria of the Teaneck Police Department (Philanthropy Award).
A proud third-generation preacher from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Pastor Bob currently serves as the Director of Adventist Community Services (ACS) for the Allegheny East Conference. With over 45 years of ministry experience—including more than 30 years as a Departmental Director and 15 years as a pastor—Dr. Smith has built a legacy of faithful service that spans the globe, having ministered in 131 countries. He also chairs the Regional Conferences ACS Caucus and has supported every major North American Division disaster response over the last 35 years.
Known for his passion for community outreach and education, Pastor Bob remains a tireless advocate for the transformative power of Adventist schooling. His years of pastoral leadership at the First Teaneck Seventh-day Adventist Church were marked by unwavering support for Wilbert F. Mays School, earning him this well-deserved recognition.
Dr. Smith is married to Mary Ann Hughes Smith, a retired educator and administrator. They have been married for over 42 years and have one adult son, Alex.
The Allegheny East Conference celebrates Dr. Smith’s well-earned honor and is proud to have such a devoted servant-leader guiding its community service initiatives.
