Shannon B. Smith

Dean

Professor

Ware-Rhaney Building, Suite 103

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Dr. Shannon Bright Smith, APRN, ACNS-BC, CNE is the Dean of the School of Nursing at Florida A&M University (FAMU) and a distinguished leader in nursing education. With a career spanning clinical practice, academia, and leadership, she is dedicated to advancing nursing education and improving healthcare outcomes for diverse populations.

Dr. Smith earned a BSN and MSN from MUSC and a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Organizational Leadership and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Science from the University of South Carolina. She is Board Certified by ANCC as an Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist and by NLN as a Certified Nurse Educator.

Prior to joining FAMU, she led nursing at Claflin University from its inception in 2016. Under her leadership, Claflin achieved national accreditation, launched a Master of Science in Nursing program, and was recognized for excellence in diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in nursing education. Her efforts secured over $8 million in funding for nursing education projects, including funds to build a school of nursing building, the development of a simulation center, and scholarships for students. Her research focuses on reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors in African American emerging adults, with a novel approach known as UPSTREAM CVD.

Her mission is to secure the future of nursing by preparing nurses to serve diverse communities and address critical healthcare disparities. Dr. Smith's greatest joy lies in student success, and she continues to inspire the next generation of nurses through her leadership, faith, and dedication.

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• NUR 4830E – Leadership and Management in Complex Systems