Mary A. Smith, PhD, APRN, FAANP, FACHE is a distinguished healthcare scholar, clinician, and executive leader whose academic and professional journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing health policy, equity, and innovative care delivery. Based in Madison, Mississippi, Dr. Smith brings a uniquely multidisciplinary perspective to the intersection of nursing practice, law, and public administration. She is also a nurse practitioner and dual board certified in family practice and psychiatry.

Dr. Smith earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi University for Women and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing. She later pursued her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Alabama, which emphasized executive leadership in complex healthcare systems. She further broadened her expertise by completing a Master of Studies in Law at Samford University's Cumberland School of Law, concentrating on health law, regulatory affairs, and insurance policy.

Dr. Smith's most recent scholarship culminated in a PhD in Public Policy and Administration from Mississippi State University, where her research examined value-based reimbursement models, electronic health record interoperability, and the Medicare Quality Payment Program. She has been part of the nursing profession for over 3 decades with many years of academic teaching experience in nursing. Her breadth of credentials positions her as a transformative voice in health policy, education, and community-centered care.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Mississippi University for Women

Master of Science in Nursing, University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing

Doctor of Nursing Practice  and Rural Nursing Case Management, University of Alabama

Master of Studies in Law, Samford University, Cumberland School of Law

PhD in Public Policy and Administration, Mississippi State University

Family Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified

Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners

Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives

Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality