Minnie B. Smith

Minnie Beatrice Smith (February 18, 1882 – December 1, 1918) was an American educator and an incorporator of Alpha Kappa Alpha, the first sorority founded by African-American women.

Early life Minnie Beatrice "Beadie" Smith was born in Washington, D.C. on February 18, 1882. She was the daughter of Katherine "Kate" (née Jackson) and Willis J. Smith.

Smith attended St. Augustine's School for her elementary education. She recited "Little Edith's Request" at the school's closing exercises in June 1895, where she was presented with the gold medal for lessons. She graduated from a high school in Washington, D.C. in June 1901.

Smith attended Miner Teachers College now known as University of the District of Columbia graduating with a teacher's diploma on June 12, 1903. She enrolled in Howard University, graduating with an A.B. cum laude in June 1912. While at Howard, she was a member of the local sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha. Smith served as the national sorority's first grammateus or secretary. She contracted the Spanish influenza in November 1918. She died a few days later at her home in Washington, D.C. on December 1, 1918. Her funeral was held at her home at 1518 Corcoran Street Northwest, followed by mass at St. Augustine Catholic Church.