Paige Hall Smith

Dr. Paige Smith is a seasoned public health professional and academic with significant expertise in maternal and child health (MCH). Her career spans multiple roles within academia and public health practice, showcasing her commitment to improving health outcomes for women, children, and families. As of the time of the CV provided, she served in influential roles that bridged research, policy, and practice. Dr. Smith earned her Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies from Pennsylvania State University and an M.S. in the same field. Her academic journey began with a B.A. in Psychology from Dickinson College. This strong foundation in developmental science has informed her lifelong focus on maternal and child health. Her career includes serving as an Associate Professor and Research Faculty at the University of Alabama, where she taught in the Department of Health Care Organization and Policy and the MCH Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Program. Her academic work emphasized interprofessional education, life course theory, systems thinking, and family-centered care — foundational pillars for future MCH professionals. Dr. Smith’s federal service includes an impactful tenure at the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB), where she was Chief of the Research and Policy Division. In that role, she directed national policy and research initiatives designed to improve MCH systems and support workforce development. Her leadership facilitated evidence-based program development and supported grants management that advanced national objectives in maternal and child health. Additionally, she contributed to the development of the National MCH Workforce Development Center and played a critical role in the MCH Navigator, a national web-based portal for continuing education. Dr. Smith also served as a liaison to other federal agencies and provided strategic leadership for interagency collaborations related to children with special health care needs. Her scholarly output includes published articles and significant contributions to curriculum development and public health workforce education. Dr. Smith’s career is characterized by her ability to integrate public health science with practical implementation, preparing the next generation of MCH leaders and promoting equitable, evidence-based solutions to improve maternal and child health outcomes. She is also recognized for her mentorship and commitment to leadership development, having received honors for teaching excellence and serving in numerous advisory capacities at both state and federal levels. Dr. Smith’s dedication to improving MCH systems and her interdisciplinary approach to training and research mark her as a leading figure in the field.