For 45 years, Larrie Smisson has been a familiar and beloved face at Life University (Life U). As the front desk associate for the CC-HOP Student Clinic, Smisson has not only witnessed generations of chiropractic students come and go – she’s supported them every step of the way with compassion, patience and unwavering dedication.

“I was working a temp job back then,” Smisson recalls. “My parents were getting adjusted at Life U and told me, ‘Larrie, why don’t you go up there and apply?’ So, I did, and the rest is history.”

Born in Athens, Greece while her father was in the service, Smisson and her family eventually settled in Georgia where she’s lived in Marietta nearly all her life. Life U became not just a workplace, but a purpose. “When I started, I was very young and very green,” she says with a smile. “But as I got more involved with the University, I started to see the world – because we have students from everywhere. That made it really interesting for me. I think that’s why I stayed.”

At CC-HOP, Smisson manages the front desk, making sure everything runs smoothly for students, faculty, and interns. “I make sure the paperwork is ready for the faculty, assist the students and interns with whatever they need. If they have a question I can’t answer, I find the answer.”

To Smisson, her work is more than just checking people in or organizing files. It’s about supporting the heart of the University – its students. “First and foremost, they’re human beings. They go through a lot. The D.C. program is intense. So, whatever I can do to make it easier for them, I will. That’s my focus.”

Smisson has always believed in Life U’s guiding principle of Lasting Purpose: to give, to do, to love, to serve, out of your own abundance. “You love the students, you do for the students, you serve the students, and you give out of your own sense of abundance every day,” she shares. “I do my best.”

Outside of work, Smisson’s heart belongs to her animals. Over the past 25 years, she and her family have adopted and rescued more than 20 dogs. “Every minute was rewarding,” she says. “They love unconditionally. My fur babies are important to me.” Today, two of them, Rags and Gracie, keep her company and bring peace to her day. “Taking care of them and my little home, that’s what relaxes me.”

Smisson also lives a life aligned with Vitalism, the philosophy that guides Life U. “It’s healing from the inside out,” she explains. “Adjustments, nutrition, taking care of your body and your mind – that’s vitalism to me.” And yes, she still gets adjusted. “Absolutely,” she nods.

Over the decades, Smisson has been involved in campus events like Lights of Life and the Run the Lights of Life, always giving her time and energy to help build community. Her wisdom is simple, but powerful: “Kindness, patience and being happy – that makes a big difference in how you show up for others.”

Smisson isn’t just a member of the staff. she’s a pillar of Life U. She’s the first smile many see, the helping hand that keeps things moving and the quiet force that reminds us all what it means to serve with love.

“She is the kindest, finest, loveliest, tenderest and most beautiful person I have ever known,” said Dr. Lynn Krothe, Assistant Professor, Chiropractic Sciences. “I’m very blessed to have had her in my life every day and night for these many years. Aren’t we the lucky ones to have been given this wonderful gift of her presence during our lifetime.”