Steadfast, unassuming, unconquerable, empathetic, astute - words that describe a woman who represents that which is good and right. After her untimely retirement as a special education teacher Marineeta Smallwood has devoted her time, talents, finances, and efforts toward community service. For nearly 20 years she volunteered simultaneously as director, teacher, and administrative support for a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) Adult Basic Education Program. Scores of adults, from all walks, received education, nurturing, and assurance. Adjudicated youth, self proclaimed prostitutes, those recovering from drug addiction, pastors, single mothers, grandmothers, married couples, new immigrants and more have received their GED’s because of her work. We know that education is associated with reduced crime, higher incomes, upward mobility, and an array of other positive outcomes. She literally changed the trajectory of the lives of a multitude of people armed with sincerity, broad intellect, skill, and compassion. When men and women entered the program they often inquired about other needed resources. Mrs. Smallwood helped them. Probation officers would call to confirm the attendance. Mrs. Smallwood helped them. Some came hungry or in need of a letter for a caseworker. Mrs. Smallwood helped them. One came bruised and tearful. Mrs. Smallwood helped her call a shelter. These volunteer efforts branched into resource coordination and case management. Yet, her volunteer efforts did and do not end with the GED/ABE program. Prior to that she taught literacy to residents of West Philadelphia’s House of Umoja. Marineeta visits the elderly in senior homes. She visits patients receiving dialysis and chemotherapy as well as those who have mental illness. She offers encouragement, cheer, and prayer. Moreover, she is a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. She is the matriarch of her family and guides with sacrificial love, non judgement, and support. What makes all of these feats amazing ones is that she suffers from a painful, crippling, debilitating disease - Multiple Sclerosis. She has been unable to walk for more than 25 years. She performs her service from her wheelchair or electric scooter. Yet, she takes not a moment for self pity. Her own pain is not a deterrent to helping others deal with their pain. Marineeta Smallwood is distinct among distinct women. For these reasons and so many more she is a “Woman Who Has Made History.”