We're excited to connect with our alumni through our Darlington Connects series. Today, we hear from Rod Smith (’72).
Rod is a devoted follower of The Darlington Podcast. Upon listening to Episode 113: A Chat with Rick Buice, Nancy Ivester & Jack Summerbell, he was so moved by the content that he decided to reminisce with cherished memories that he shared with the Advancement Office.
Rod began at Darlington in the fall of 1965 as a sixth-grader and had two of his most influential teachers from the beginning. Hugh Merson taught math and George Dorsey taught science.
“Mr. Dorsey used scientific methods in everything he did,” said Rod. He recalled that Mr. Dorsey wore two Accutron watches as an experiment to evaluate accurate timekeeping. At that time, the Accutron was an early electric watch and served as a timekeeper on space missions. Now, Rod owns two Accutron watches, though he jokingly said he “only wears one.”
Mr. Dorsey was influential in fueling Rod’s passion for photography, which guided him to become a part of the Annual Staff club during Upper School. “One day he gave me a stainless steel film tank and reel for developing film. I used it in the Annual Staff darkroom and use it even now,” Rod said.
Another impressional teacher was Rick Buice, who Rod had in the Upper School. Rick and Rod rode motorcycles together. "That was the thing about having Darlington teachers; you grew in knowledge and you grew as a person," said Rod.
Since his time by the Lakeside, Rod has had six different careers that include ministry, sales, marketing, business management, photography, and finally education. “My last 11 years of work were as a teacher," he said. "After many years of other careers, I wanted to give back to society through teaching. My Darlington teachers were among the best motivators for that attitude and desire. Darlington was the best school I ever attended, and it shaped my life more than I could have ever imagined.”
Are you a member of the Darlington Community (or do you know one) with an interesting career or community involvement? We'd love to spotlight you in a future blog! Please email connect@darlingtonschool.org if you are interested in being featured.
