Shonna Smith, MS

Bio

Shonna Smith, a native of Dallas, TX, is currently pursuing a PhD in Agricultural Education and Human Sciences at North Carolina State University. She holds a Master of Science in Animal Science, specializing in food safety and disease prevention, from The Ohio State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Sciences from Southern University and A&M College. Her research interests focus on improving the health and food environments of minority communities, with a particular emphasis on developing food and health intervention programs aimed at changing health behaviors related to food and nutrition. Shonna’s ultimate goal is to advocate for food security, promote sustainable food systems, and advance initiatives in nutrition, health education, and agricultural policy for diverse communities.

Shonna is actively involved in several organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and Minorities in Agriculture Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS), where she served as the 2023-2024 National MANRRS Region II Graduate Student Vice President. Her passion for community engagement and leadership continues to drive her efforts to create meaningful change in the lives of those she serves.

Programs and Initiatives

• Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS), https://www.manrrs.org/

Contributing Websites

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/shonna-smith/

Professional Honors/Offices/Recognitions

• 2023-2024 – MANRRS Region II National Officer
• 2023 – NASDA/MANRRS Agricultural Policy Summit Fellow
• 2022 – Chief Student Marshal (Highest GPA), College of Agriculture, Family & Consumer Sciences, Southern University and A&M College
• 2021-2022 – Southern University Presidential Fellow

Area(s) of Expertise

• Food and Nutrition Education
• Health Behavior Change
• Food Security and Accessibility
• Community-Based Programs