BY: Cheryl Smith
We’re still singing the same tune, “Give to your HBCUs!”
For those just tuning in, on October 17, 2025, I will be honored in a way I never dreamed of. My picture will be officially unveiled on the Thelma T. Gorham Distinguished Alumni Wall in the School of Journalism and Graphic Communication at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) in Tallahassee, Florida.
Talk about excited! I am overjoyed and only wish my parents and many loved ones who are now my ancestors were around to share the moment with me.
To think that decades from now, when the fire has gone out of my pen, people will see my photo, and be able to scan the QR code and read about my journey and the people who traveled with me.
As I prepared for the unveiling, I said I wanted others to benefit, so I decided to raise funds for FAMU students.
First, I contacted people who I believe are responsible for many of my accomplishments and life lessons, and they agreed to continue supporting me by helping to build the scholarship fund. They are known as Cheryl’s Champions!
Then we began putting the plea out and encouraging others to support.
Next, we began our “Last $2” campaign. We know people are called on for a lot, and some folks are constantly giving, so we asked for your last two dollars that would definitely go for a great cause, regardless of what you spent the rest of your money on.
Just think your $2 could have a huge impact on someone’s life.
Well, now we come to the next fundraiser as we march to the October 17 unveiling. We have launched an online auction, offering a wide range of items for you to bid on. Don’t leave anything in the unsold column. There’s something for everyone!
Now, I want to take a minute to appeal to your common sense.
Golden Gate Funeral Home has generously donated a funeral service, cremation, and we are pairing that with a full-page tribute/obituary in Texas Metro News!
Some shudder at the thought, while others are practical.
If you’ve ever lost a loved one and wondered how you were going to pay for the funeral, you know that’s not a good feeling to have.
Some may opt for launching a “GoFundMe” page, and others will wish they had taken advantage of this opportunity.
We’re talking about a package totaling almost $10,000!
While you don’t like to focus on something considered gruesome or depressing, death is part of life, and you have to face reality and prepare so the burden doesn’t fall on those who are mourning your passing.
We have more than 100 items on display, including designer items, hotel stays, and appliances.
A song from my childhood said it best, “It’s better to have and not need than to need and not have.”
And just know, we are financing our future.
You can check out the auction at www.texasmetronews.com..
Now, let the bidding begin.
