Sojourner House is thrilled to announce Dr. Camille Clarke-Smith as the Honorary Chair of the 21st annual Victorian Tea, taking place on April 27, 2025, at the Wyndham Grand Hotel in Pittsburgh. A respected leader in health and wellness, Dr. Clarke-Smith embodies the mission and values that Sojourner House upholds: empowering individuals and families to rebuild their lives through compassion, resilience, and community-centered care.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Advocacy
Dr. Clarke-Smith brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to uplifting underserved communities. As the Program Director in the Quality Improvement Department at UPMC Health Plan, she leads the Medicare Faith and Wellness Program, a groundbreaking initiative addressing health equity by engaging faith-based organizations to deliver tailored wellness programs.
Moreover, her visionary leadership extends to her role as the Founder and Executive Director of THAW (Transforming the Health of African American Women), a nonprofit dedicated to addressing health disparities that disproportionately affect Black women. Through THAW, Dr. Clarke-Smith has spearheaded programs like Boxing Yoga Exhale and Financial Empowerment, providing holistic resources for trauma recovery, wellness, and financial independence.
In her personal life, Dr. Clarke-Smith is the First Lady of Destiny International Ministries, where she seamlessly integrates her expertise in wellness with her faith. Furthermore, her trauma-informed approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health, a philosophy that aligns with Sojourner House’s mission to help families heal and thrive.
Why Dr. Clarke-Smith Supports Sojourner House
Dr. Clarke-Smith’s connection to Sojourner House is rooted in shared values and a mutual commitment to transformational healing. She passionately supports the organization because of its mission to empower women and families through recovery and rebuilding. “As someone who has experienced challenges and healing, I recognize how vital it is to provide women with safe spaces where they can grow, recover, and be supported,” she shared. “Sojourner House embodies compassion, strength, and the opportunity for generational change—values I hold close to my heart.”
Dr. Clarke-Smith sees the work of Sojourner House as an investment in transformation. “Every mother they serve represents the possibility of breaking cycles of substance use and poverty, and every child represents a future of hope and possibility,” she said. “By supporting this organization, we are not just aiding individuals; we are uplifting families and strengthening communities.”
A Message of Hope and Inspiration
Dr. Clarke-Smith is inspired by Sojourner House’s ability to bridge faith, recovery, and family through a trauma-informed and faith-based approach. “Seeing mothers rebuild their lives and relationships with their children while creating a foundation for a better future is incredibly moving,” she remarked. “It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of holistic care.”
To the families and community served by Sojourner House, Dr. Clarke-Smith offers a heartfelt message: “You are seen, valued, and loved. Your journey is a testament to strength, and every step you take toward healing and rebuilding is a victory worth celebrating. Know that you are not alone; there is a community that believes in you, prays for you, and supports you every step of the way.”
A Fun Fact About Dr. Clarke-Smith
Beyond her professional achievements and community advocacy, Dr. Clarke-Smith has a unique and inspiring personal passion: fitness. For example, she has competed in fitness competitions, including bikini and figure contests, and has trained women who have gone on to achieve professional status in figure competitions. Her love for movement and wellness is a reflection of her holistic approach to health.
Join Us for the 21st Annual Victorian Tea
The Victorian Tea is a cherished annual tradition that brings together individuals and organizations who believe in the power of recovery, healing, and community. Consequently, this year’s event will be made even more special by the presence of Dr. Clarke-Smith, whose life’s work exemplifies the values of Sojourner House.
We invite you to join us on April 27, 2025 for the 21st Annual Victorian Tea, to celebrate the incredible work of Sojourner House and honor Dr. Camille Clarke-Smith. Together, we can continue to empower women and families on their journeys to recovery and transformation.
Head to our website purchase your tickets today to join us on April 27th. Proceeds from the tea benefit the families of Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS. Visit our website to learn more.
Thank you to this year’s generous recovery champion sponsors, UPMC and UPMC Health Plan, Duolingo and Lamar. Additionally, we extend a warm thank you to the members of our 2025 Host Committee: Mary Bockovich; Larry Brophy; Lynne Chadwick; Deb Dejardins; Dr. Staci Ford; Renee Georgi; Keri Harmicar; Anniegrace Heck; Michelle Pagano Heck; Natasha Lightner; Lauren Marzullo; Sarah Mayer; Charmaine McCall; Kim Miller; Dr. Channing Moreland; Susan Orr; Ashley Sharek; Christie Smith; Laura Stephany; Betsy Teti