Ms. Smith has been a life-long ally to persons with disabilities, growing up in a family with a mother who is a special education teacher and with a step-sister with a physical disability. She began her career working in education and recreation programs serving children and young adults with disabilities. Ms. Smith previously served as a research study coordinator and database manager for the Institute for Community Inclusion in Boston. She earned her Master’s in Education, Juris Doctor, and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Disability Studies from Syracuse University. Ms. Smith will begin doctoral studies SU’s School of Education in the fall of 2006, focusing on inclusive special education policy.