Brother James Artel Smith
 A Future Educator Wins Phi Beta Sigma Education Scholarship 

The Sigma Spotlight for the month of March recognizes Bro. J. Artel Smith, a future educator and winner of the Phi Beta Sigma Education Scholarship. Bro. Smith was initiated into the Rho Tau chapter at George Mason University in 2002.  The Phi Beta Sigma Education Scholarship is awarded to members who possess strong academic credentials and leadership abilities inside and outside of Sigma. Bro. Smith has distinguished himself as a positive role model for young people in his local community as a mentor for the Fairfax county public school system. 

As a mentor to young people he stressed the difficult challenges that they will face in life without education as their foundation, and the many pitfalls that are ever present as a college student.

As an undergraduate student at George Mason University, Bro. Smith was very active in Phi Beta Sigma and the National Pan Hellenic Council where he received multiple awards in leadership, and participated in activities such as cancer walks, clothing/food drives, and tutoring. During his entire undergraduate career he held at any given time one if not two jobs, a full course load, and was actively involved in various campus projects. Bro. Smith was still able to graduate with a GPA above 3.0. Growing up in Ashland, VA, his parents have always encouraged him to explore new territory and in the words of the late great poet Robert Frost, “take the road less traveled, for it truly makes all the difference”. 

During an internship with First Virginia Bank and the US Securities & Exchange Commission Bro. Smith gained an understanding and appreciation for how hard attorneys work and the continuing education they must pursue to remain legal advocates. It was that experience coupled with the leadership development in Phi Beta Sigma that has attributed to his strong desire to teach and practice law in the future. He is committed to giving back to the community through education and the law. Bro. Smith is currently enrolled in Graduate School at George Mason University where he is pursuing a Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. 

Bro. Smith is now a member of the Theta Tau Sigma chapter where he continues his service to his community. Phi Beta Sigma is proud to produce members who are committed to excellence in all that they do. It is through this excellence that Phi Beta Sigma continues to be on the front lines of service to all humanity. 

The Sigma Spot Light looks to recognize members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity who are doing great things in our communities.  If you know a brother who may be a potential Sigma Spot Light candidate send his information to technology@pbs1914.org.