Theresa c. smith radiology scholarship

Theresa Catherine (Loe) Smith was born Sept. 5, 1958, to Thomas and Myrna (Gulden) Loe at the Fairmont Community Hospital. She received her education in Welcome, MN and graduated as salutatorian of her class in 1977. She then attended the University of Minnesota and later extended her education at Loretto Hospital in New Ulm and received her Radiologic (X-ray) Technologist certification, RT (R).  While employed with the Fairmont Hospital, Theresa also went on to complete her certification in Computed Tomography (CT), Mammography (M), and Bone Densitometry (BD). Theresa (Tess, as she was called by her co-workers) was employed at the Fairmont Community Hospital, now known as Mayo Clinic Health System in Fairmont for 37 years. On April 25, 1981, she was united in marriage to Henry Smith and had 3 daughters - Cathy, Carey, and Abbey. 

Theresa valued education and always enjoyed working with students in the department. Theresa enjoyed working at the hospital and loved her patients and many coworkers. Education was very important to Theresa as she was often taking on new responsibilities and worked to obtain many certifications. She was very proud of her achievements at work. She enjoyed working in mammography and prided herself on making the room more comfortable for her patients. She took time to warm the plates, dim the lights, and play calming music. She had many patients request her by name, which she was very proud of. She took time to teach her students about the importance of the little details that make a big impact for patients. 

She was a member of St. John Vianney Catholic Church, member of St. Bernadette’s Circle where she served as President at one time. She was a Girl Scout Service Unit manager for three years in Fairmont and was a Brownie and Junior Leader for seven years. Theresa enjoyed trap shooting and taught Gun Safety. 

Theresa liked to remind people that “It’s the friends we meet along the way that help us appreciate the journey.”  Theresa met many wonderful people during her career at Mayo Clinic Health System - Fairmont.  Helping students learn about this rewarding career was something Theresa was very passionate about.  This scholarship helps support students so they too can experience this rewarding career.