Sharetta Smith is sworn in as one of two new magistrates by Judge Bob Moon while at the city/county courts building in this file photo.A Hamilton County magistrate was recognized Friday as Chattanooga's Young Professional of the Year.
Sharetta Smith was honored by the Young Professionals Association of Chattanooga.
"Wow. I think I'm the most shocked in the room," she told those attending a YPAC luncheon at the Hamilton County Business Development Center.
Smith told a story about a teacher in a seventh-grade language arts class who told her she could someday be valedictorian. Smith's parents didn't graduate from college, and she said the teacher's words had an impact.
"No matter who you come into contact with, there are people watching and what you say can change people's life and their destiny," Smith told the audience.
Others honored by YPAC Friday are:
- Michael Brandt, artist of the year.
- Chris Palmer, community service award.
- Andrew Scarbrough, entrepreneur of the year.
- Decosimo, YP-friendly business of the year.
Keynote Speaker Kim White of RiverCity Co. told those at the YPAC luncheon to do something they love.
She said she made a decision to "put my passion over my pocketbook." She also urged them to be agents of change.