Meet Grinnell College’s inspiration for Renfrow Hall

Descended from mid-19th century freedom seekers, Edith Renfrow Smith was born in Grinnell, Iowa in 1914 and grew up in one of the town's oldest Black families.

• At 110 years old, the retired teacher and lifelong volunteer proudly embodies the community spirit of a true Grinnellian.

Why it's important: On Sept. 28, Grinnell College will dedicate Renfrow Hall to Smith and her inspiring life of achievement, service and generosity.

• The first Black woman to graduate in 1937 — and an inductee to the Chicago Senior Citizens Hall of Fame in 2009 — Smith's life as an involved citizen and community leader represent Renfrow Hall's mission.

Through Renfrow Hall, Grinnell — both the town and College — aims to become a national voice for civic engagement and college-community collaboration despite its rural setting.

What this means: The student living and learning facility was designed as a mixed-use hub for the broader community, where experienced and aspiring coalition-builders can drive more awareness for programs, policies and practices that incorporate diverse voices and experiences to further the common good.

The breakdown: Grinnell students must apply to live in Renfrow Hall — and once a resident, they must participate in academic opportunities, volunteering, event planning and community coalitions.

Renfrow Hall will even host Grinnell College's Social Innovator in Residence program, where students will engage with inspiring leaders who…

✨Make an enduring difference in the world.

✨Foster interdisciplinary creativity.

✨Promote civic engagement and social change.

Plus, plus, plus: Students can also find meaningful opportunities in programs using the building's Katherine Howell Weingart '61 Civic Innovation Pavilion — a space dedicated to exchange, problem-solving and collaborative brainstorming with the community.

To honor her legacy, Smith's remarkable story will be shared with Renfrow Hall residents and visitors through a permanent display in the building.

• The goal: Current and future generations of Grinnellians, community members, and visitors will know her name, understand her values and perpetuate them through their contributions to the world.

"My mother always said, 'There's no one better than you,'" says Smith. "'You are unique and you are you, so never forget how important you are.'"

What you need to know: Grinnell College is the place for students who want to build a stronger community, helping develop them into engaged citizens and fostering coalition-building with area residents and organizations.

• With nearly 200 applications for 110 places, Renfrow Hall will be home to students dedicated to civic engagement and excited about being part of the community

Learn more about Renfrow Hall — and explore Grinnell College's community collaborations.