Upon walking into the Ashland University convocation center, looking for a daily special, any student would recognize Opal Smith behind the counter. 

Her greeting is warm, and her familiar face is known to many AU frequenters.  

Smith is mostly well-known as, “Convo Grandma.”  

She began working in the AU kitchen in 1998, after she and her husband had a hurried separation. With four kids at home, she was in search of a job – something that aligned with her hobbies and something that was close to home. 

With persistence, Smith landed a kitchen position at convo where she spent her shifts cooking meals for students. This eventually led her to the front, serving food instead of cooking, and greeting students daily.  

Smith enjoys the interactions and loves that students call her, Convo Grandma. In return, she sees them as her grandkids, as well.

“My kids are all grown,” she said. “and I see you guys more than I see my own kids or grandkids, for that matter. . . I see virtually all you guys at least twice a day. I’m lucky to see my kids or grandkids once a month.”  

Smith’s children range from ages 43 to 37. Their names are Liza, William, Douglas, and Victoria. Her grandchildren range from age 24 to 10. 

Smith said being a grandma means everything to her, “If I could have grandkids before I had kids, I would’ve had grandkids. Less heartache.”  

During the holiday breaks, Smith spends her time cooking, baking, canning, gardening and more. But she looks forward to coming back to the dining hall where she can see her “kids” again.  

“You guys always treat me with kindness, and I just feel the love when you are around,” she said. “I need you guys around me.” 

Smith said she doesn’t always remember students by name, but she remembers everyone by face.  

Convo Grandma serves at the daily specials line and is always excited to meet a new friend.