The Waterloo Region District School Board is mourning the loss of Vincent Smith. Vincent was a teacher with the WRDSB for nearly 30 years, having taught at both Cameron Heights and Eastwood Collegiate Institutes throughout his career.

John Bryant, director of education, explained that Vincent’s drive and spirit is one we can all admire.Vincent Smith

“Our organization’s strength comes from the hard work of individuals like Vincent Smith.” said Bryant. “His dedication throughout his life to bettering the community around him made him a role model for all of us – but most importantly, for black youth in our community.”

During his retirement, Vincent dedicated his time as an ordained Minister – counselling and conducting weddings, christenings and burials as a member of the Waterloo Pentecostal Assembly and in the African-Caribbean community.

Throughout his life, Vincent was a dynamic contributor to a number of community organizations, including the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre and the Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region.

Trustee Mike Ramsay shared his memory of Vincent as a passionate community member, who worked hard to preserve the history of the region, while striving to make the future brighter for all people.

“He was the unofficial historian,” said Ramsay. “And a tireless advocate and community builder, especially when it came to improving race and cultural relations in Waterloo Region.”

Vincent’s presence was felt in the school system and especially in the broader community, where he was held in special regard. The flags at the Education Centre will be lowered to half-mast throughout the day on Friday, March 1, in honour of Vincent’s memory and legacy as a respected community leader.