Hunter Smith and her late husband, Carl (Col ’51), have been longtime benefactors of the University of Virginia’s College at Wise. The Smiths have supported key initiatives and organizations, such as the Carl W. Smith Stadium, the Lila Vicars Smith House, the Hunter J. Smith Dining Commons, and the Marching Highland Cavaliers.   

The Hunter Smith Family Foundation made yet another transformational gift to UVA-Wise, contributing $10 million to establish the Carl W. Smith Bicentennial Scholars Fund. The gift, which is the largest in the school’s history, was matched through the University’s Bicentennial Scholars Fund, bringing the total to $20 million. More than 100 qualified students a year will have access to a college education, thanks to the Carl W. Smith Bicentennial Scholars Fund. The gift also established the Carl W. Smith Bicentennial Scholar-Athlete Program. 

“Mr. and Mrs. Smith and the Hunter Smith Family Foundation have always been exceptionally kind to UVA-Wise,” said UVA-Wise Chancellor Donna P. Henry. “The Carl W. Smith Bicentennial Scholarships could be the deciding factor for many students who worry that a college education is out of their financial reach. We are deeply grateful for this gift.”