Mary Smith

Mary Smith, Ph.D. is an education policy researcher who uses mixed methods to study how education systems and structures can better support students, educators, leaders, and communities. Her research primarily explores how policies, programs, and organizations facilitate students' transitions from high school to postsecondary education and the workforce. Her current and prior work has explored K-12 career and technical education (CTE) finance, early postsecondary opportunities for high school students, and community college support programs for non-traditional students. She received her Ph.D. in Leadership and Policy Studies at Vanderbilt University, Peabody College and a B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.