UofM President Bill Hardgrave, Remembering Fred Smith
PRESS RELEASE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS
UofM President, Bill Hardgrave issues statement after death of Fred Smith
“Fred Smith was a titan of industry and a passionate Memphian who devoted more than 50 years to growing this city. A fierce advocate for education, he helped shape opportunities at the University of Memphis that have elevated our campus — investments that include top-tier facilities, academic programs and internships that connect our students to the height of corporate America. Through the Learning inspired by FedEx (LiFE) program, Fred Smith gave his employees the opportunity to acquire college degrees at the UofM, providing flexible schedules and tuition assistance to those who needed it most.
His legacy will forever be displayed through the lives of our students, the strength of our programs and the deep bond between FedEx and our institution. Our thoughts are with the Smith family and the entire FedEx community as we mourn the loss of one of Memphis’s most transformative leaders.” said Bill Hardgrave, UofM President.
