Kimberly C. Smith, MD, MPH

Biography

Kim Connelly Smith, MD, MPH, is a professor of pediatrics at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. A nationally recognized expert in pediatric tuberculosis, Dr. Smith has dedicated more than three decades to advancing clinical care, research, and education in pediatric infectious diseases and public health.

Dr. Smith earned her medical degree from The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston and her Master of Public Health from the School of Public Health at UTHealth Houston. She completed her pediatric residency and chief residency at UTMB, followed by one year of Pediatric Infectious Diseases fellowship.

Since joining UTHealth Houston in 1989, Dr. Smith has held numerous leadership roles, including founding and directing both the Harris Health Children’s Tuberculosis Clinic and the UT Children’s Tuberculosis Clinic. Her work has significantly shaped pediatric TB care and policy in Texas and beyond. She has served as a consultant to the CDC-funded Heartland National Tuberculosis Center and has developed widely used educational tools, including the book Pediatric TB Radiology for Clinicians.

Dr. Smith has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters, including contributions to leading texts such as Vaccines and Feigin and Cherry’s Textbook of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. Her research has been supported by grants from the NIH, CDC, and industry partners, and she has presented her work at national and international conferences.

A passionate educator, Dr. Smith has received numerous teaching awards, including the UTHealth Houston Dean’s Excellence in Teaching Award and the Champion of the Clinical Learning Environment Award. She has mentored generations of medical students, residents, and junior faculty, and continues to lead curriculum development and clinical training in general pediatrics and pediatric tuberculosis.

Dr. Smith’s contributions to public health, particularly in tuberculosis prevention and care, have earned her recognition from the City of Houston, Harris County, and professional societies. Her work exemplifies a lifelong commitment to improving child health through clinical excellence, education, and advocacy.