Laredo Mourns the Loss of United Way President and Community Leader Carolyn Schmies
A wave of sadness has been felt across Laredo following the passing of Carolyn Schmies, a respected educator, administrator, and community leader whose work touched countless lives. Her death has been confirmed, and tributes have already begun pouring in from colleagues, friends, and residents who knew her as a woman deeply committed to service and education.
Carolyn Schmies was widely known for her long and impactful career at Laredo College. For 12 years, she served as the dean of the South Campus, a role in which she helped expand academic access and opportunity for students from all backgrounds. During her tenure, students were supported, programs were strengthened, and a welcoming academic environment was fostered. Many credit her leadership style for creating pathways that allowed students to succeed not only in college, but beyond it as well.
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After retiring from Laredo College in 2021, it was not a surprise to those who knew her that her dedication to the community did not slow down. Instead of stepping away from public service, she shifted her focus and continued giving back through the United Way of Laredo. This year, she served as the organization’s president, taking on the responsibility of guiding initiatives designed to support families, children, and individuals throughout the city. Under her leadership, efforts aimed at strengthening social services and community partnerships were championed.
Those who worked alongside Schmies often described her as compassionate, thoughtful, and deeply invested in the well-being of others. Her leadership was said to be grounded in empathy, and her decisions were often guided by a genuine desire to make Laredo a better place for everyone. It has been shared that her ability to listen, encourage, and inspire made her an extraordinary presence in both educational and nonprofit spaces.
The impact of her passing has been felt not just within institutions, but across the broader community. Many residents see her legacy reflected in the students she mentored, the programs she supported, and the lives she influenced through decades of service. While her work has come to an end, the results of her efforts will continue to be seen for years to come.
Funeral and memorial service arrangements have not yet been announced, but it has been indicated that details are expected to be shared sometime in January. As Laredo reflects on her life, Carolyn Schmies is being remembered as a leader whose dedication, kindness, and commitment left a lasting mark on the city she served so faithfully.
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