Ms. Josephine C. Smith grew up in New Zion, South Carolina, in a loving and faith-filled family. With the strong support of her Christian upbringing, she excelled academically and graduated with honors from Walker Gamble High School. Her dedication and achievements earned her a well-deserved scholarship to further her education in college. 

She attended Barber-Scotia College, where she graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. She continued her academic journey at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, earning a Master’s Degree in Education. Committed to professional growth, she also obtained certification in Supervision, Curriculum, and Administration from the same institution. Additionally, she received specialized training in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, further enhancing her expertise in education. 

Ms. Josephine C. Smith is a retired educator with a distinguished 40-year career in education. Throughout her tenure with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, she served in various roles, including elementary school teacher, staff developer, assistant principal, and principal. As principal of Huntingtowne Farms Elementary School, she led the school to become one the first in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to implement the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program. In addition to her contributions to K-12 education, she also shared her expertise as an adjunct professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, shaping future educators.  

Beyond her professional career, Ms. Smith is deeply committed to her faith and community. She is a devoted member of Friendship Presbyterian Church USA in New Zion, South Carolina, and Memorial Presbyterian Church USA in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she has served in numerous capacities. She also demonstrated her dedication to higher education as president of the Barber-Scotia College Alumni Chapter of Charlotte, North Carolina. In 2019, she furthered her commitment to her alma mater by joining the Board of Trustees for Barber-Scotia College, where she served on the Nominating Committee, Building and Properties Committee, Academic and Student Affairs Committee, as well as numerous ad hoc committees. Additionally, she is a proud member of the Alpha Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.