Speaking and living the truth in love

Rev. Donald Smith Shares The Key To A More Unified Mercer

This article appeared originally in the 2/17/22 issue of the Harrodsburg Herald for a series entitled, “Our Voices” which highlighted African American community leaders in Mercer County Kentucky.

Donald Wayne Smith was born to be a leader. Smith, a Harrodsburg native, has spent his life investing in and elevating his community.

Rev. Donald Wayne Smith poses with his wife, Collette, children, Calicia, Donald II. (D), Charyse and grandson Braysen

While reflecting on his time growing up in Harrodsburg Smith said, “I always felt growing up like people in our community got along.” Continuing, “I felt that we were a close knit group and people truly saw each other as special.”

His first roles leading others came in the ways he lead with his athleticism. Smith was a star running back for the Harrodsburg High School Pioneers leading the team to multiple successful seasons. In 1998, Smith returned home to lead the Pioneers, this time as the head football coach.

After seasons on the sidelines at Lafayette High School and Kentucky State University, Smith returned once again to help with the process of merging HHS and Mercer County High School. Smith continues to lead at the now unified MCHS as an assistant principal and in 2015 was named the athletic director.