She is the principal investigator for the Partnerships to Improve Care in Dementia project that advances family involvement in dementia care, and others that address late life issues. Dr. Smith is also the leader of the Collaboratory for Healthy Aging, that seeks to build state-wide community and research partnerships to help older adults successfully age in place. She received her B.S.N. from the University of Iowa, M.S., University of Colorado and Ph.D., University of Iowa.