Professor C. Justin Robinson has paid tribute to educator and choir director Dr. Renee Smith.

The tribute followed Dr. Smith’s sudden death at the age of 48.

Meanwhile, Robinson stated on Thursday on behalf of The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus.

Dr. Smith served as Campus Counsellor and Choir Coordinator at the university.

Robinson described her as “a builder of harmony, in voices and in lives.”

News of her passing broke early Thursday morning.

Dr. Smith directed Antigua and Barbuda’s National Youth Choir for many years.

She mentored young singers and led performances locally, regionally, and internationally.

In addition, she founded the UWI Five Islands Singers at the Five Islands Campus.

Robinson said Dr. Smith guided students through music, counselling, and mentorship.

“To the student sitting across from her on the hardest day of the year, Dr. Smith was a refuge,” he said.

He also said she encouraged nervous singers to keep trying and believing in themselves.

Furthermore, Robinson praised her dedication to education and student development.

Dr. Smith earned a PhD from Walden University.

According to Robinson, her greatest legacy lives in the people she inspired.

He said students often remembered her kindness more than the performances.

Meanwhile, Robinson extended condolences to her family and loved ones.

He also offered support to Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural and educational communities.

“We will carry her memory in everything we teach,” Robinson said.

He added that her influence would remain in every student encouraged and every song performed.