History of Smith in Africa

Smith has had a long history with Africa. In 1961, Ng’endo Mwangi became the first African student to graduate from Smith. A true pioneer, she later became Kenya’s first female doctor. In 1973, the Mwangi Cultural Center was named in her honour. The center has stood as a hub for African students at Smith, providing a space for gathering, reflection and celebrations that are central to the Smith experience. Smith has strengthened its connection to Africa through the establishment of the African Studies department. Over the years, Smith has proudly graduated African students who represent numerous countries across the continent and join a vast network of alumnae worldwide. In 2027, we wish to honour and build on this history by hosting the first reunion of Smith alumni in Africa. We hope to bring a little taste of Smith to Cape Town, to reconnect, relive some of our memories and create new ones.