The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus is mourning the sudden passing of Dr. Renee Smith, the institution’s Campus Counsellor and Musical Director of The UWI FIC Singers, whose death has sent shockwaves throughout Antigua and Barbuda’s educational and cultural communities.

Dr. Smith passed away suddenly in the early hours of Thursday morning at the age of 48.

In an emotional statement issued on Thursday, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Principal Professor C. Justin Robinson described Dr. Smith as “a builder of harmony, in voices and in lives,” praising her lifelong dedication to mentorship, music, and student development.

For many years, Dr. Smith served as director of Antigua and Barbuda’s National Youth Choir, helping to shape and inspire generations of young singers. Following her move to the Five Islands Campus, she founded The UWI FIC Singers, leading students to performances on local, regional, and international stages.

A holder of a PhD from Walden University, Dr. Smith was celebrated not only for her academic achievements and musical excellence, but also for her compassion and unwavering support for students.

Robinson said her greatest legacy would be found in the countless lives she impacted through counselling, mentorship, and encouragement.

“To the student sitting across from her on the hardest day of the year, Dr. Smith was a refuge,” Robinson said. “To the nervous singer who did not yet know what they were capable of, she was the one who said, try again.”

The university noted that students and colleagues alike often spoke about her ability to make people feel seen, valued, and capable of achieving more than they imagined.

The statement drew heavily on scripture and faith as the campus community struggled to come to terms with her sudden death.

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning,” Robinson said, quoting Psalm 30:5, while also describing Dr. Smith as a “good and faithful servant” whose life was poured out in service to others.

On behalf of the campus community, Robinson extended condolences to Dr. Smith’s family, loved ones, former students, and the wider cultural and educational sectors now grieving her loss.

“We will carry her memory in everything we teach, in every student we encourage, and in every song we sing,” the statement concluded.

Dr. Smith’s passing has triggered an outpouring of tributes from former students, musicians, educators, and members of the public who remember her as a gifted mentor, counsellor, and cultural leader whose impact stretched far beyond the classroom and choir stage.