YharNahKeeShah Smith
The Marvin D. and June Samuel Brailsford College of Arts & Sciences is deeply saddened by the loss of Ms. YharNahKeeShah Smith (affectionately called Ya-Ya). Ya-Ya was not only a remarkable faculty member but also a friend to many in the College. Her dedication to her role as a theatre professor inspired her colleagues and transformed her students.
Ya-Ya studied drama at various institutions, including Kingwood College, Sam Houston State University, Texas Woman’s University and Louisiana State University. Before joining Prairie View A&M University as a Lecturer, Ya-Ya performed in several stage and film productions in addition to serving as costume designer for theatre productions, including “For Colored Boyz” at the Fulton Theatre in Lancaster, PA.
The Brailsford College of Arts & Sciences deeply feels the loss of YharNahKeeShah Smith. She leaves behind a void that will not be easily filled. A celebration of her life is planned for Saturday, November 4, 2023, at Trinity Gardens Church of Christ in Houston, Texas.