With recent appointments and political campaigns, the Smitherman family's power and influence continue to grow.
Retired Jefferson County Judge Carole Smitherman has been named the new dean of Miles Law School. At the same time, her daughter, Birmingham City Councilwoman Crystal Smitherman, leads as one of the state's top fundraisers for a city council seat.
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"Serving as Dean of Miles Law School is an honor. It is also a great responsibility. As an alumnus of Miles Law School, I have firsthand knowledge of the things that make our academic experience distinct. And as a jurist, I know the value that Miles Law School's graduates bring with them to the legal field," said Smitherman in a statement on the school's website.
"Continuing Miles Law School's legacy requires growth. I thank President Bobbie Knight for being a willing partner in our efforts to increase enrollments, advance alumni engagement, and attract distinguished professors to teach our students," she continued.
Carole Smitherman is married to State Sen. Roger Smitherman (D-Birmingham). The couple has three daughters and a son.
Crystal Smitherman's parents' influence is cited in her official city biography, saying, "Coming from a strong lineage of public servants, President Pro Tempore Crystal Smitherman has always looked up to her father, State Senator Rodger Smitherman, and mother, Judge Carole Smitherman, for guidance on how to serve the public. President Pro Tem Smitherman brings her own brand of leadership to District 6."
As of Monday, she was second in the state for fundraising, having raised $98,820.
Crystal's sister, Mary Smitherman, owns and operates Vitality, a healthcare services company that was recently court-ordered to care for Lisa Wallace, the former First Lady of Alabama, who was released home from a facility against her will.
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