Honoring Ashanti: A Life Cut Short, a Legacy Enduring

The tragic loss of Ashanti Smith, a vibrant and dedicated student at Florida A&M University (FAMU), has left a profound impact on her peers and the broader community. Her caring nature, fiery spirit, and unwavering commitment to her studies and extracurricular activities have inspired those who knew her, and her memory will continue to inspire others in the years to come.

Remembering a Remarkable Young Woman

A Caring and Nurturing Soul

Ashanti Smith's peers describe her as a multifaceted individual, with a tough exterior that belied her deeply caring and nurturing nature. FAMU senior Jaylen English, who was part of the dance team Ashanti led, recalls her as someone who was "tough on the outside, but on the inside, she was very caring and nurturing." This duality was a testament to Ashanti's strength of character and her ability to connect with those around her on a profound level.As a first-year criminal justice major at FAMU, Ashanti hit the ground running, becoming the president of the Lovely Ladies of TorQue dance team and an active member of the FAMU Section of the National Council of Negro Women. Her involvement in these organizations showcased her passion for community engagement and her desire to make a positive impact on her peers.

A Fiery and Respected Presence

Ashanti's peers also remember her for her "fierce and fiery personality" that commanded respect. Florida State University student Faburla Georges, who knew Ashanti through the FAMU dance team, described her as someone who "meant business and gained respect because of her aura." This unwavering presence and determination were hallmarks of Ashanti's character, and they inspired those around her to strive for excellence.In addition to her academic and extracurricular pursuits, Ashanti also worked as a correctional officer at the Wakulla Correctional Institution in Crawfordville, further demonstrating her commitment to public service and her desire to make a positive impact on her community.

A Shared Dream and a Tragic Loss

Ashanti's connection with Faburla Georges went beyond their shared involvement in the FAMU dance team. The two students also shared a common dream of pursuing criminology, having both come to Tallahassee from Broward County to study in this field. Tragically, Ashanti's life was cut short when she was involved in a fatal car accident on September 29th, leaving her peers and loved ones devastated.The news of Ashanti's passing has resonated beyond the FAMU campus, with students from other colleges in the Tallahassee community also mourning her loss. Her death has left a void that will be difficult to fill, but her legacy and the impact she had on those around her will continue to inspire and guide others in the years to come.

Honoring Ashanti's Memory

In the wake of Ashanti's passing, the FAMU community and beyond have come together to honor her memory. A candlelight vigil was held on the university's campus, where students gathered to remember Ashanti and express their grief. Additionally, a separate vigil was held on East Gaines Street, where students released pink and white balloons into the night sky while chanting "Justice for Ashanti" and "Long Live Ashanti."These heartfelt tributes are a testament to the profound impact Ashanti had on her peers and the lasting impression she left on all who knew her. As the university and her family prepare to lay her to rest, the memories of her caring nature, fiery spirit, and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire and guide those she left behind.