Jessica C. Smith has been announced as the University of Georgia College of Public Health’s Assistant Dean for Academic Programs and Student Success.
In this role, Smith will support the college’s continuous academic improvement through curriculum review, faculty resource planning and student services coordination. Her efforts will provide support to create a consistent, high-quality student experience while future proofing the college through following trends and reviewing curriculum needs for growth.
“Dr. Smith’s deep commitment to student success, combined with her track record of elevating our graduate programs, make her an excellent fit for this role,” said Dean Marsha Davis. “As assistant dean, she will be instrumental in positioning all of our programs for long-term success and ensuring sustainable growth for the college.”
Smith joined the College of Public Health in 2022 and serves as a clinical assistant professor and director of graduate studies of the college’s Master of Health Administration (MHA) program.
Under Smith’s direction, the MHA received its initial accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) Board of Directors. This distinction highlights the strength of the program and its ability to impart theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and experiential learning to provide students with a strong foundation.
“I’m honored to be taking on this role in the College of Public Health. I look forward to working closely with our leadership, faculty, staff, and students to further strengthen our academic programs, support student success, and advance CPH’s mission,” Smith said.
Smith’s research expertise centers on Medicaid policy, healthcare coverage and access, and maternal and child health. Smith also brings to the role her experience at the Georgia Health Policy Center, which works in communities throughout Georgia to improve health and wellbeing.
Smith holds a PhD in Population Health and an MS in Economics from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and a BA in Economics from the University of Tennessee–Knoxville. Her extensive experience in both academic instruction and state-level policy research will guide her work in advancing faculty development and academic affairs across the college.
By Erica Techo
