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Fort Valley State University has received $5.8 million, from the estate of alumnus Pastor Eddie D. Smith Sr. and wife Martha Smith, the largest philanthropic gift in the university’s history, marking a significant investment in the continued growth and success of the institution and the scholars it serves. 

As a two-time graduate of Fort Valley State University, Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 1968 and master’s degree in the same field in 1971. He maintained a lasting connection to the institution that helped shape his educational journey. Through a gift from his estate, he extends that commitment to future generations of Wildcats. 

“This gift represents an extraordinary investment in the future of Fort Valley State University and, most importantly, in our students,” said FVSU President Paul A. Jones, Ph.D. “We are grateful to the Smith family for believing in the mission of this institution and recognizing the impact that FVSU has on the lives of our students, our communities and the state of Georgia.”

Presented to the university by Kenneth Moye, executor of the late Smith family estate, this transformative gift will support key university priorities, including academic excellence and student success, designed to strengthen the student experience and position FVSU for continued success. 

FVSU’s growing national recognition and continued institutional progress provide important context for this historic investment in the university’s future.

From its designation as a Carnegie Research College and University to its recognition as the #1 public HBCU in Georgia and its strong standing in social mobility, FVSU continues to expand its impact while remaining grounded in its mission as a public HBCU and 1890 land-grant institution. 

This investment from the Smith family will position FVSU to extend its impact, advance opportunities for students to achieve their educational and professional goals and translate an FVSU education into greater possibilities for themselves, their families and their communities.