Putting Name to Face: Marcia Smellie

Image of Marcia Smellie

Marcia Smellie was born in London, England, and moved to Canada with her family at the age of 13. She went on to attend Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson), where she obtained her B.A.A. During her time at TMU, she joined the Toronto Metropolitan University Afro Caribbean Association (formerly RACA), which led her to two summer internships with the program HeadStart for New Canadians. Through this experience, she introduced the power of teaching and the importance of being a role model for young Black children.

Marcia spent her entire career providing educational services designed to meet the needs of students in inclusive, culturally appropriate, and sensitive ways. While she briefly worked in administration, she discovered that her true comfort and joy lay in classroom teaching.

Even in retirement, Marcia continues to serve her community through involvement in various boards and community groups, as well as by encouraging engagement in political processes across the Black community.