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A Legacy for Access
The Smith Scholarship Foundation, established by Avondale Mills heiress Mignon Comer Smith, invests in the college education of economically disadvantaged students across the state.
Leading an examined life is precisely the unexpected path chosen by Avondale Mills heiress Mignon Comer Smith, who died of a heart attack at the age of 81 while working at her desk two years ago.
An avid horsewoman, in 1954 Smith became the youngest Joint Master of the Fox Hounds in the United States, notorious in the horse world for sporting the pink collar traditionally worn by men, instead of wearing black typically worn by women.
Mignon’s 1978 Cadillac
A budding entrepreneur, during her early 20s, this Sylacauga native established the first English-style riding school in Alabama. She also created a pony club for young riders, often providing access and resources for the underprivileged to ride.
She owned a stud farm, now known as Mede Cahaba Stables and Stud LLC, and later became an outspoken proponent of horse track racing in Birmingham. -more
MISSION STATEMENT
To provide a legacy of learning to those students who have given back to their community through volunteer work and assistance to family. To assist those students in becoming productive members of society who possess independence, morality and good citizenship. To encourage these leaders of the future to devote their talents and education to their community, state and nation by providing their fellow man with an example of compassionate citizenship.