Robert P. Smith Alumni Luncheon Brings Attendees Together

The Robert P. Smith Alumni Luncheon was held at The Cove Lions Community Building in Loysburg on June 18, 2022. This school was founded in 1930 when Smith was just 35 years of age after graduating from George Washington Law School. The first class graduated in 1934 and the last class graduated in 1957.

Smith recognized the need for education and assured the resources were added to accomplish that and more. A cafeteria, library, and outside gardening classes were just a few of the amenities this school added. The school existed from 1930 to 1988.

Classes that were honored this year were 1942 (80 years), 1947 (75 years), 1952 (70 years), 1957 (65 years) and 1962 (60 years). Roses were given out in each category.

Among this group was Louise Penny Burket Henry, who was the oldest in attendance at 95. She received flowers and money. Henry immediately gave the money back to the alumni association. She accomplished many things and in 2020 published a book called

“Myrtle the Orange Turtle” for children. Henry was very vibrant and is an example of how one can always keep accomplishing and learning.

Graduates of the Northern Bedford School District formed an alumni association recently. An invitation was extended to Smith Alumni who graduated before the jointure in 1957. However, the Smith Alumni Association has decided to keep things the way they were. Any Smith alumni who are interested can do so by contacting Eleanor L. Phillips, 590 Lincoln Avenue, Williamsport, Pa. 17701-2434.

A monument is located close to where the school stood. There are still pavers available at the monument. In the next few months, the bricks from the school will be added making the monument complete.

Among the guests attending were Jennifer Bruno and her husband. Bruno was the daughter of the principal at the time before it became Northern Bedford in 1958. Jennifer said her father gave as much to the children as he could, but they gave back to him in so many ways.

Bobbie Replogle, the last living teacher, who taught music, also attended.

Kathy Smith Turner is the granddaughter of Robert P. Smith and is very proud of her heritage and loves all who attend the alumni luncheons. Her family plans on continuing this scholarship program for many years to come.

Each year two scholarships are given as Robert P. Smith recipient. It is always one girl and one boy. This year Alayna Bowser was a recipient and plans to attend York Technical Career Institute for Veterinarian Technician. Noah Martin also received a scholarship and plans to attend University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and major in Civil Engineering. Ila Jane Diehl and Henry were the presenters on May 31.

Mary Corle provided a lot of information for this article and was a member of 1957 class of 45 students and won the Home Economics Award. Corle assists Diehl, who is the secretary. Corle is a mother of six – all NBC grads – and has 21 grandchildren.

The meal was catered and served buffet style from Kountry Kettle Restaurant.