Smith, who has a wealth of experience in the field of criminology and justice issues, policymaking and education, succeeds Jonathan Lucas of Seychelles, who the Secretary-General praised for dedicated service and commitment to the Organization in leading the implementation of the Institute’s mandate during a very challenging period.

Currently the Senior Coordinator for International Programs in the Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons at the United States Department of State, Smith was a Lead Foreign Affairs Officer at the Department of State between 2011 and 2012 and an Associate Professor in Criminology and Director of the Masters in Criminal Justice Program at the University of Baltimore, United States.

She has also served as Chief of the International Centre at the National Institute of Justice in Washington, D.C. and has researched a wide range of topics related to criminal justice, including juvenile justice, corrections, human trafficking and gender issues in courts.

A former Fulbright Senior Researcher in Turkey, Smith holds a Doctorate of Philosophy in Social Ecology from the University of California, Irvine, a Master of Science in Education Administration from National University, Irvine, and a Master of Science in Justice from American University in Washington, D.C.

Photo: UNICRI