Ask Jessie Cottman Smith about venerable Frederick Douglass Library on the University of Maryland Eastern Shore campus and she responds, proudly, “It’s my baby!”
A native of the crossroads community of Tindley’s Chapel in southern Somerset County, Smith is a 1950 graduate of what was then Maryland State College. She earned a master’s degree in library science from Columbia University in New York, then worked as a librarian and teacher at Worcester High School in Newark, Md. for 15 years. She came “back home” to Maryland State in 1966.
Smith initially worked in the old campus library, one of the first brick buildings on campus, and then moved into Douglass, where she was a fixture until her retirement in 1998. She holds the distinction of being named UMES’ first Dean of the Library.
The fifth of nine children, Smith dropped out of school in 1947 and went to work so she could save up enough money to return to college. She eventually received assistance and graduated three years later in 1950.
That is probably why she and her husband, Morris, whom she married in 1972, feel so strongly about giving back to the university. The couple established an endowment – the Jessie M. Cottman Smith and Morris B. Smith Frederick Douglass Library Fund – and they faithfully contribute to it with ongoing contributions.
“Had it not been for UMES, I would not be where I am today,” Smith said. “It is unthinkable for me not to give back. Where I was helped by others, I would like to help others.”
She was popular among generations of students, too; the 1973 Hawk yearbook staff dedicated that year’s edition to her.
The Smiths are seen often on campus and routinely attend functions throughout the year, from fund-raising galas to commencement ceremonies and alumni events. Smith is a member of the Tri-County Alumni Association member as well as a Life Member of the National Alumni Association.
“It is my duty to give back to the institution that gave me so much for so long,” she said.
She also is a lifelong active member of Mount Zion United Methodist Church, where he serves in various capacities, whenever and wherever needed.
An exhibit room on the second floor of the Douglass library was named in her honor in April 2011. The festive event attracted a large turnout, including members of her extended family.
“We are grateful to Jessie and Morris Smith for their faithful commitment to UMES,” said Veronique Diriker, UMES’ development director. “We are forever grateful for your generosity and the spirit with which they give!”
Mrs. Smith died Dec. 10, 2020. She was 92.
