Birmingham City Schools -

Birmingham native and accomplished performer Salome Smith returned to G.W. Carver High School to pour into and inspire the next generation of artists.

A proud member of Carver’s Class of 2012, Smith has built an impressive career as a singer, dancer, actress, and storyteller. She has performed on Broadway and toured nationally in productions such as 1776, while also appearing in acclaimed Off-Broadway shows including Jelly’s Last Jam and Little Shop of Horrors. Her talent has reached national audiences through appearances on The View, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and the CBS series East New York.

Standing before students who now walk the same halls she once did, Smith shared not only her accomplishments but also the real-life lessons behind them.

“Rejection is redirection,” Smith told students. “I’ve been told no, and I still made it to stages I didn’t even know existed. For my seniors, this is a season of transition. Some of you know exactly what you want to do, and some of you don’t — and that’s okay, because I didn’t either," she said. "Be intentional, be disciplined, be focused, because no one will chase your dream for you.”

Smith holds a Master of Fine Arts from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Alabama State University.

Her visit serves as a powerful reminder that greatness grows right here in Birmingham City Schools —and that with passion and perseverance, students can turn their dreams into reality.

"I can't begin to explain the joy and feeling accomplishment not only for me but Salome as well. Fine Arts teachers must realize we give student's skills that will last them a lifetime and they will use these skills anywhere they go. Teaching is for the outcome not the income. Salome being able to return and tell the story is a priceless gem to me," said Bobby Stringer, Choral Director. 

For a glimpse of Smith's talent and career, watch the video embedded below.