I marvelled at and became infected with her enthusiasm and passion for tackling big problems.

Dr. Lesbia Smith was a tremendous resource to local public health…and a role model for Fellows in Community Medicine.

Those of us who were privileged to share our professional experiences with Lesbia knew we worked with an exceptional physician.

She shared her interest, enthusiasm and critical questioning with students in her leadership of the environmental epidemiology course over many years. As a faculty member who took up her mantle, I so appreciate her legacy. Donald C. Cole Associate Professor & Interim Head, Global Health Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health

Lesbia said it like it was and, when necessary, she did not mince words. But whatever the situation, she was able to bring such humour, and with laughter such persuasion, that always she could cut through the waffle and the rubbish and highlight what an issue was really about. Donald C. Cole Associate Professor & Interim Head, Global Health Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health

Lesbia was my mentor, collaborator, and friend. I could not have asked for a better role model. Lesbia taught me to follow my passion, and above all else, be authentic. I will forever be grateful for her impact on my life and career. Donald C. Cole Associate Professor & Interim Head, Global Health Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health

Lesbia has taught us all how to live – once we are further from the pain, we will look back and deeply miss our wonderful Lesbia who has been our true friend and colleague and taught us what living is all about.

Lesbia Fernández Smith-Levin