On the recordFebruary 28, 2019
Today, during Black History Month, I rise to celebrate Rita Smith-Wade-El, a leader in my community of Lancaster. Rita passed away last month, but her impact will be felt in our community forever. She was a fierce leader on social justice issues and racial equality in our community. Her life can best be described as a life of service and a life of compassion. She served as a lector, eucharistic minister, and social justice committee member. She was always trying to lighten the load for others and lend a helping hand. Rita saw those in need and recognized that if she had the power to give, she would, and even if it wasn't in her power, she would try anyway. Rita was a longtime Millersville University professor of psychology and African American studies and founded the school's African American studies minor. I am very happy to celebrate her life today. We will miss her in our community, and we will miss her contributions to our community. ____________________
