2021 Alumni Service Award
Longtime CMU supporters and college sweethearts, Michael and Lonna Smith met as undergraduates on campus. Michael earned a B.S. in mechanical engineering and proposed to Lonna in 1968 during his senior year. Marriage followed the next year after Lonna earned her BFA in music. The couple began their careers in Cincinnati, Ohio, where Michael received a graduate degree in aerospace engineering and joined General Electric’s aircraft engine business and Lonna became a music teacher. In 1977, the Smith family relocated to San Jose, California, when Michael transferred to GE’s nuclear energy business. He would go on to hold several positions with GE before his eventual retirement as manager of safety evaluations and procedures. Lonna continued to pursue her teaching career in California completing a graduate degree in education with an emphasis on reading and language arts. She transitioned to post-secondary teaching at the California Community Colleges and San Jose State University.
Upon retirement, Michael and Lonna dedicated themselves to supporting their community sitting on many advisory boards and committees throughout Santa Clara County. Their strong ties to CMU are apparent through their support of the Department of Mechanical Engineering and School of Music. Lonna is a charter member of the College of Fine Arts Dean’s Council. They are also actively involved with the University Libraries’ Archives, and Michael is a charter member of the Libraries Dean’s Advocacy Council.