Honoring a Media Pioneer Who Centered Black Women
Clarence O. Smith, co-founder of ESSENCE magazine and a major force in Black media, passed away on April 21 at age 92. He leaves behind a powerful legacy that changed how Black women are seen and celebrated in publishing and beyond.
Smith helped create ESSENCE in 1970 when there were few platforms speaking to Black women’s lives. The magazine quickly became a cultural icon. It highlighted the beauty, power, and everyday experiences of African American women. Over the years, ESSENCE reached millions and gave voice to generations of Black women who longed to see themselves reflected in media.
Building a Platform That Celebrated Black Women
Smith launched ESSENCE with three other visionaries: Edward Lewis, Cecil Hollingsworth, and Jonathan Blount. Together, they built more than just a magazine—they built a movement. At its peak, ESSENCE had a readership of 7.5 million and became a trusted space for beauty, career advice, fashion, politics, and empowerment.
The brand expanded into television, awards shows, and the ESSENCE Festival of Culture, one of the largest celebrations of Black culture in the world. Smith made sure the platform never lost its purpose: honoring Black women.
A Legacy of Breaking Barriers in Media and Marketing
Smith didn’t just build a magazine—he changed an industry. Former editor-in-chief Susan Taylor said, “He shifted hearts, minds—and investment choices—in the conventional advertising world.” His leadership helped push companies to recognize Black audiences as worthy of serious investment.
His work gave Black women editors, writers, and creatives the resources and platform to tell their own stories. Thanks to Smith, generations of Black women gained a media space made for them, by them, and about them.
Recognized for His Vision and Impact
Smith’s work didn’t go unnoticed. He received several honors during his life, including the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Publishing in 1994 and the A.G. Gaston Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997. These awards highlighted his trailblazing role in publishing and entrepreneurship.
On social media, EBONY Magazine praised Smith as a visionary. “He created space for Black women when few would. His work reshaped media, culture, and community,” they wrote.
From the Bronx to the Boardroom
Born in the Bronx, New York, on March 31, 1933, Smith lived a life grounded in service and purpose. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959, he studied business at the Baruch School of Business. He later worked at Prudential Insurance before following his passion in media.
That foundation in business helped him lead ESSENCE with clarity and boldness. He proved that Black-led businesses could thrive and uplift communities at the same time.
A Lasting Legacy That Lives On
Smith is survived by his wife, Elaine, and their family. Though he is no longer with us, the impact of his work continues. ESSENCE remains one of the most trusted names in Black media. Every cover, every article, and every event that uplifts Black women is part of Smith’s ongoing legacy.
He gave generations of Black women a mirror to see their brilliance. And for that, the world is better.
