Proud mother rents billboard in South Jersey after daughter becomes doctor

CAMDEN, New Jersey (WPVI) — A South Jersey mother is so proud of her daughter’s accomplishments that she decided to let the whole city know about it.

When Kendra Busbee’s daughter, Kristine Smalls, received her doctorate in psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine on July 29, it was a full circle moment.

“At the age of five years old, she knew that she wanted to be a doctor,” said Busbee of Camden.

That’s why Busbee knew she had to celebrate big.

The moment started in the parking lot of The Pub in Pennsauken.

“She thought I was surprising her with a Covid party in the parking lot,” said Busbee.

Then she noticed the giant billboard.

Her face and her accomplishments are now visible to everyone traveling along Route 130, just south of Airport Circle near Camden.

“From what I hear, it’s about 15,000 cars that drive by here Monday-Friday,” said Busbee.

The proud mother rented the billboard for $1,250, but she says its effect is priceless.

“The kids there don’t really know what’s outside of Camden. Seeing somebody on a billboard becoming a doctor, it is possible,” said Smalls.

Kristen Smalls

“We once heard that nothing good comes out of the city of Camden, and we just wanted to let them know this is something good that comes out of the city of Camden,” added Busbee.

It’s a message that even caught the eye of the mayor.

“So many positive things going on in our city and this is another big positive,” said Mayor Victor Carstarphen.

There’s just one more person Busbee hopes her viral billboard post will reach.

“Can we get Beyonce?” said Busbee with a laugh.

The new “Dr. Smalls” already has a job in Springfield, Pennsylvania, but her goal is to “give back” to Camden.

“My ultimate goal in life is to come back to Camden and create a resource center,” she says.

And when she does, Busbee just might have to book another billboard for her new favorite doctor.

For anyone who hasn’t already seen the billboard, Busbee rented it for a month. So you’ve got plenty of time to pass by — and pass on the word to Beyonce.

Copyright © 2022 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.