To the Editor:
Martha’s Vineyard Superintendent of Schools Dr. Richard (“Richie”) Smith is retiring at the end of this school year. Richie has had an amazing career on the Vineyard as a teacher, principal and superintendent. His contributions as a school and community leader are immeasurable.
To honor Richie for all his support and accomplishments, the Martha’s Vineyard Diversity Coalition (MVDC) will present him with the first annual Friend and Leader Award at this year’s free Truth and Joy event, Saturday, June 27, from 5 to 7 pm at the MVPAC. All are welcome at the celebration, which will also premiere a 30-minute video from the Martha’s Vineyard Living Legends (MVLL): Black, Indigenous, People of Color and Immigrants Elders Oral History Project, one of the many initiatives that Richie supported.
We are inviting the community to send greetings to Richie — a farewell note, a thank-you card, a shared memory, etc., and we will present him with all greetings received — at the Truth and Joy event.
Please email your message to monahennessy1@gmail.com, or mail letters and cards to: Mona Hennessy, 125 Daggett Ave., Vineyard Haven, MA 02568. Please send them by June 23. Thank you, and see you at Truth and Joy!
Mona Hennessy
Member, MVDC