In June 2021, as part of back-to-back commencement exercises, Gonzaga’s 36th President, Fr. Stephen Planning took the opportunity at his final graduation ceremony to award a special Doctorate for the first time during his tenure.

As many of you know, Gonzaga College High School’s historic charter allows for the awarding of honorary degrees.

The recipient: Gabe Smith '54, the first African-American to graduate from Gonzaga. As Black History Month is being celebrated this February, this week in S1E20, we celebrate Dr. Gabe Smith.

Just how did the young student from St. Peter Claver’s Parish, in Southern Maryland end up, 80 miles away on Eye Street? And how was Gabe treated once he arrived? And after the rigors of four years at Gonzaga, did the future pharmacist feel prepared for Howard University?

Gabe’s shares the answers, and his appreciation for God and Gonzaga in Episode 20 of the Echo Ever Proudly podcast.