(photo from Georga Sports Communications)
The University of Georgia Indoor Athletic Facility was not the only thing dedicated this week. A new lobby at one of the Indoor Facility entrances was dedicated to Loran and Myrna Smith.
The lobby features a collage of photos commemorating Loran’s association with UGA which has spanned more than 50 years. Also included is a large plaque which includes the text:
Loran and Myrna:
“Georgia’s most gracious ambassadors for over 50 years, Loran Smith, the Southern gentleman, and Myrna, the Southern Lady, welcomed guests from all over the world onto the UGA campus and into their home always carrying the banner of the University of Georgia.”
“A career Bulldog, Loran hailed from Wrightsville, captained the 1960 Bulldog track team while earning his journalism degree, and never left. The most versatile of all Bulldogs, he served as Assistant Sports Information Director, Business Manager, Executive Director of the Georgia Bulldog Club, accomplished author of more than 20 books, syndicated columnist and radio host, founder of the pre-game football Tailgate Show, the Bulldogs’ first in-game sideline reporter, and Georgia’s most accomplished fund raiser in the name of athletics. Loran served as chairman of the State of Georgia Sports Hall of Fame and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1997. Myrna came to Athens from Covington and received two degrees from UGA.
“Exhibiting the essence of grace and hospitality, none have been greater standard bearers for the Georgia Bulldogs than Loran and Myrna Smith.”