A newly established scholarship will soon live out the legacy of 1988 accounting alumna, Theresa “Terri” Kathryn Klein Smith (1959-2019).

Born in Dallas and graduating from Bishop Lynch High School in 1977, Terri spent her career not only striving for excellence, but mentoring others to do the same. As a student, she earned the high distinction of magna cum laude with both her bachelor and master’s degrees in tax accounting from UNT. After graduation, she continued to excel as a licensed CPA in both Texas and Missouri while spending her career working for Arthur Andersen-Dallas, Grant Thornton-Dallas, a Fortune 500 company in Missouri, BKD in Missouri, and Corptax, Inc.-a leading international tax software firm in Plano.  Often taking young college graduates under her wing to help them start their careers, Terri believed in providing opportunities to others.

Those who knew her describe her as the “sweetest girl in the world,” “wonderful lady,” “a smile to light up the room,” “upbeat nature,” “wonderful smile,” “utmost professionalism, inspiration to all who knew her,” “positive attitude, wisdom, honesty, and kindness,” “honor to work with her,” “wonderful laugh, honor and privilege to work with her,” “passion for service made others’ lives better every day,” “easy laugh and a smile in her voice,” “will miss her smile, sharp wit, and engaging personality,” “will miss her expertise, camaraderie, and smile,” “one of the kindest people I have ever met.”

Her husband, Ken, has established a substantial scholarship in her name that will continue Terri’s legacy of generosity and selflessness. Open to master’s in taxation students, the Theresa Kathryn Klein Smith Scholarship will offer financial assistance to those striving to reach their professional goals and achieve academic excellence.

The G. Brint Ryan College of Business is proud to have Terri’s memory live on through the scholarships that will serve to enhance students’ lives forever.