Smith was finalist for state award

Twenty-five years ago this week, a local teacher was recognized for her anti-drug leadership.

A story in the Oct. 28, 2000, edition of The Commercial Review featured Judy Smith, an East Elementary School teacher, as a finalist for the Indiana Enrique Camarena Award.

Smith was honored along with four other finalists and the co-winners of the award at a Red Ribbon Rally at the Hilbert Circle Theatre in Indianapolis that week.

Nominees for the award were volunteers or professionals in the field of prevention, enforcement or treatment of drug-related problems who demonstrate Drug Enforcement Administration Agent Enrique Camarena’s belief that one person could make a difference. Camarena was killed in the line of duty by drug traffickers. His life and death served as the inspiration for the anti-drug Red Ribbon Week that began in 1985.

“I feel it was very special recognition because drug and alcohol education is a passion in my life,” Smith said. “If it saves one child from alcohol or drug abuse, then it makes some of my efforts worthwhile.”

“It’s rare that you get awards for doing what you love,” she added.

Candidates for the award were nominated from schools, law enforcement, mental health organizations and other anti-drug associations.

For nine years, Smith had been educating students about the dangers of drugs and alcohol through East Elementary’s Just Say No Club for fifth and sixth graders and Beginning Alcohol and Addiction Basic Education Studies.

“Someone close to me had a problem with drugs or alcohol, andit caused me a lot of heartache,” said Smith. “That’s why I took up this cause …”

East Elementary principal Lee Newman nominated her for the honor.

“When I saw the (award nomination form) come in, I thought she was the perfect candidate for all she’s done at the school,” Newman said. 

“She speaks from the heart, and that’s what makes it meaningful, he added.