Smythe Celebrates 25 Years

Smythe arrived at MUS in 2001 to chair the Religion Department and teach religion and ethics. He became Lower School principal in 2005 and is responsible for launching a host of traditions and programs, including the Springfield Scholars, Order of the Owl, Buzzards intramural basketball, Drumline, ASAP after-school program, and the creation of the official school neckties.

In 2018 he returned to teaching religion full time, and since 2023 he has held the Robert J. Hussey, Sr. Chair of Religion.

“Clay has a long record of service to MUS,” Sanders said during the Faculty Luncheon on May 15. “Together with William Halliday, Class of 1982, he founded the Robert J. Metcalf Symposium in 1998, an annual lecture series to encourage reflection on the ethical traditions of Western Civilization.”

In 2001 he was named the Alumni Executive Board’s Volunteer of the Year for his work initiating and overseeing a before-school student Bible study program led by alumni.

Beginning in 2015 he was a moving force, along with Owl volunteers, behind TEDxMemphis, the local event that hosts speakers presenting TED Talks. It continues to this day.

“Smythe and his wife, Gracey, have contributed three sons to the halls of MUS: Stan ’18; James ’20, and Leo ’28,” Sanders said. “Thank you, Clay, for your 25 years of creative service to your alma mater.”