WCBI Chief Photographer Ronnie Smith Receives Paul Harris Fellow Recognition

Columbus Tupelo West Point Starkville, MS, October 7, 2026 — WCBI Chief Photographer Ronnie Smith has been recognized with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow award by the Columbus Rotary Club. The honor celebrates Smith’s nearly three decades of dedicated service to both the local community and the WCBI television station.

The Paul Harris Fellow recognition is a significant achievement, acknowledging individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service and contributions. Smith has served as Chief Photographer for WCBI, a local news outlet, for close to 30 years. This long tenure highlights his commitment and consistent performance in his role.

While the summary does not specify the exact date of the recognition ceremony or the individuals who presented the award, it confirms the honor was bestowed by the Columbus Rotary Club. This organization is known for its commitment to community service and recognizing individuals who embody its values.

Smith’s nearly 30 years of service imply a deep understanding of the community he has covered and a strong professional relationship with WCBI. The award signifies the impact of his work not only through the lens of a camera but also through his broader contributions over the years. Details regarding specific projects or community initiatives Smith has been involved in during his career were not provided in the summary.

The Paul Harris Fellow award, established in honor of the Rotary founder, is the Rotary Foundation’s longest-standing award of its type. It acknowledges individuals who meet or exceed annual, Phonetic, or outright gifts to The Rotary Foundation, or whose family members do so in recognition of their humanitarian service and dedication. The summary, however, does not detail the specific criteria met by Smith beyond his dedicated service.

Story summarized from the original created by Cameron Denney on www.wcbi.com, see more information here.

Media gallery