Sharla Smith, PhD, MPH

Sharla Smith, PhD, MPH is an Associate Professor in the Department of Population Health and Director of Birth Equity in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Kansas School of Medical Center-Kansas City. Dr. Smith earned an undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a Master of Public Health degree in Health Policy and Management, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Health Services and Systems Research from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. She is a health services and systems researcher that has been working in public health since 2006. Her current research focuses on Black maternal and infant health and community engagement. Dr. Smith is passionate about developing a culture of birth equity through community engagement, empowerment, and education. Dr. Smith is the founder and executive director of the Kansas Birth Equity Network, a community-centered network that creates equitable solutions to improve Black maternal, paternal, and infant health in Kansas. Her current funding aims to reduce disparities in early onset preeclampsia, postpartum preeclampsia, and maternal and paternal mental health. Her most recent grant will develop a patient centered doula-provider group perinatal care program to reduce disparities in preeclampsia and improve aspirin adherence in low-income Black populations.