Michael Smith

Michael Smith Jr. serves as a Programs Coordinator for the Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM) Program at UTHealth Houston. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in Health from Sam Houston State University and a Master of Public Health from Lamar University.

Prior to joining UTHealth Houston, Michael worked for Palestine Independent School District as both a coach and Career and Technical Education (CTE) educator. With more than five years of experience in teaching, coaching, and mentoring youth of diverse ages and backgrounds, he is passionate about empowering young people through education, leadership development, and health promotion.

Michael is committed to advancing initiatives that promote youth development, mental health awareness, and equitable access to health and educational resources. Through program leadership and mentorship, he strives to create positive, lasting impacts within communities while helping young men build the skills and confidence needed to achieve their goals.