At the Golden Nights in Harlem Awards Gala held on Nov. 1 in the Armstrong Student Union Ballroom at Georgia Southern University, Savannah native Rev. Paul E. Smith, M.Div., was presented with the Community Impact Award. The honor, bestowed by the Alpha Iota Sigma Alumnae Chapter and the Upsilon Theta Undergraduate Chapter, highlighted Smith’s decades of service to the Savannah community.

Faith‑centered leadership

Smith has served as senior pastor of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church since 2021. Under his guidance, the congregation has emphasized being “Christ centered and community focused,” offering worship services, outreach programs and educational initiatives that reach both church members and neighbors.

Civil‑rights and education advocacy

Beyond the pulpit, Rev. Smith is president of the NAACP Savannah Branch, where he works to protect civil‑rights and promote equity for all residents. He also represents District 5 on the Savannah‑Chatham County Public School System Board of Education, having been re‑elected to the board in 2026. In that role, he champions policies that strengthen public schools and expand opportunities for students.

Local roots and academic achievements

A graduate of Alfred Ely Beach High School, Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Savannah State University and a Master of Divinity from Morehouse School of Religion. His contributions have been recognized with induction onto the Morehouse College Board of Preachers and selection for Savannah State University’s 40 Under 40 cohort.

Why the award matters

The Community Impact Award adds to a growing list of recognitions for Smith’s dedication to faith, education, equity and public service. Community leaders at the gala praised his ability to bridge the spiritual and civic realms, noting that his work exemplifies the kind of servant‑leadership that strengthens families and neighborhoods.

Looking ahead

As Savannah continues to grow, Rev. Smith’s combined roles in ministry, civil‑rights advocacy and school‑board governance position him to influence the city’s future positively. His ongoing commitment to “Christ centered and community focused” service serves as a model for other faith leaders seeking to make a tangible difference in their hometowns.

Original reporting: The Savannah Tribune — read the source article.