As one of TIME's most influential people in the world, Patti Smith has inspired generations of fans all over the world. Bryn Mawr College recently honored Smith's contribution to music and the arts by presenting her with the Katharine Hepburn Medal. They called her a “trailblazer in the male-dominated world of rock and roll,” and said that she inspires students because she “conveys enormous passion and continues to transform herself throughout her artistic journey.” In a tribute video, students at the college shared their own thoughts on how Smith had changed their lives. One female student said that Smith is “fearlessly herself,” something that she always strives to achieve. Others say that she “embodies what Bryn Marr is all about” because she is a strong woman who is not afraid to vocalize her opinions or revolt against social constructions.
At the ceremony, Smith performed for a crowd of more than 300 people and read from her National Book Award-winning memoir Just Kids. Throughout the course of her career, Smith and her band released 8 albums, and she was inducted into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame in 2007. Her debut effort, Horses, has repeatedly been listed as one of the greatest albums of all time. Smith is also a poet and visual artist and has released a plethora of work in both of those disciplines. A natural storyteller, Smith is a gifted orator and presents compelling keynote presentations. She shares her insights on what truly defines an artist and how we can motivate ourselves to achieve our passions—no matter what they may be.
