Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. is honored that Soror Vera Hearns Smith chose our illustrious sorority by joining the sorority on the Alpha Zeta Sigma chapter, of Bessemer, Alabama on February 14, 1954. She went on to obtain the honor of being Life Member #175 and the distinct recognition of being named a Cultured Pearl during the inaugural cycle of 2006, during the 51st Biennial Boule in Dallas, Texas, for being a member of Sigma Gamma Rho for 50+ years. Soror Smith strived to carry out the mission of Greater Service, Greater Progress by serving Alpha Zeta Sigma as their chapter Grammateus (financial officer) during the 1956-1957 sorority year. She later transferred to the Beta Mu Sigma chapter of Phoenix, Arizona where she lead the chapter as Basileus (President) and devoted her time to reactivating Beta Pi Chapter (Arizona State University) and contributed to chartering Nu Upsilon Chapter (University of Arizona).

Soror Vera Hearns Smith provided faithful service to her sorority and community for more than 64 years, within and around Sigma Gamma Rho by serving in leadership and advising roles: the chairwoman of the Mwanimugimu Essay Contest and Project Wee Savers. She was the proud wife of Bro. Louis Smith, a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated.

Be It Resolved that the members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. shall forever keep in loving memory Soror Vera Hearns Smith for her legacy, dedication, and many contributions to this sorority and her community.