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 attened Washington Normal School No. 2, 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.

Alpha Kappa Alpha
After discovering that 22 members wanted change Alpha Kappa Alpha into a new sorority, Nellie Quander, the immediate past president of the college sorority, contacted Smith and other alumnae. Smith worked with Quander to stop the proposed change, including writing letters to other alumnae. Smith, Quander, and Norma Boyd signed articles of incorporation for Alpha Kappa Alpha on January 29, 1913. This officially established Alpha Kappa Alpha as the first national sorority for Black women. The dissenters withdrew and formed Delta Sigma Theta.

Smith served as the national sorority's first grammateus or secretary. In 1916, she became its second Supreme Basileus or president.

Career
After graduating from the Washington Normal School, Smith taught at the Mott School in Washington, D.C. She continued to teach while attending Howard University.

Personal life
Smith was a member of the Women's Frederick Douglas Benefit Association and St. Augustine Catholic Church. 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.