Dr. Smith completed her undergraduate education at Oakwood University with a double major in Biology and Spanish. She received both her graduate degrees (M.S. & Ph.D.) in Food Science from Alabama A&M University and has published two manuscripts in the International Journal of Cancer Research on the chemopreventive effects of phytochemicals present in sunflower seeds and coconut flour. When she is not working, she is volunteering her time in youth ministries at her local church and enjoys practicing Jujitsu, a form of martial arts.