founder’s story

Kay Smith is an actor, inventor, and philanthropist. She was raised in Flint, Michigan with supportive parents who encouraged her academic, athletic and artistic interests at an early age.

After graduating from high school with honors, Kay turned down an out-of-state basketball scholarship in order to attend Michigan State University (MSU). Despite being a first-generation college student, she thrived at MSU—pledging into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and becoming president of the multicultural student organization before graduating cum laude with a B.A. in Communications and magna cum laude with a M.A. in Public Relations. In 2015, she continued her education by earning a M.F.A. in acting from the American Repertory Theater | Moscow Art Theatre School Institute at Harvard University. She is currently enrolled at Columbia University studying Construction Project Management & Construction Finance Management.

Kay has lived all over the world, from Moscow to London to Los Angeles. She has invented an urn and served as CCO of her family-owned funeral home; taught as a visiting professor for nine years; worked for Capitol Records and the LA Clippers; and is a credited vocalist and actor in theater, television and film.

She grew up with one brother who lost his biological father to Legionnaires disease amid the Flint Water Crisis. Hence, she founded the Flint Water Festival, DRIPPIE the water mascot, and RICH Kids, Inc. 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in an effort to uplift marginalized communities and level the playing field for all. Through her work within the entertainment industry, Kay has supplied tons of water and educational resources for disadvantaged groups in Flint, MI and beyond.

All in all, she is determined to leave a substantial mark on the world by bringing her sense of integrity to business, athletics, arts and education.