Dr. Gerri Cannon-Smith has over thirty years’ experience as Pediatrician/PH practitioner, administrator, PH/Disparity scholar and public health faculty. A Medical degree from University of Mississippi Medical School followed completion of undergraduate studies at Howard University. Pediatric training was completed at Howard University Hospital and Loma Linda University Children’s Medical Center. She received a Master of Public Health degree at University of California, Berkeley and is certified in Public Health. Career has been centered around  care of underserved populations in urban, suburban, and rural areas. Currently she is engaged in consultation with Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) Child and Adolescent Health, involved in community participatory research, and focused on health/health literacy/health equity advocacy as owner of Innovative Health Strategies.

A native of Rankin County, she is married with two adult daughters and active in professional, faith-based, and community organizations, including service on national MCH committees.