Dr. Shana Kent-Smith, Ed.D., RRT

Dr. Shana Kent-Smith, Ed.D., RRT, is a dedicated educator, healthcare leader, and community advocate with over 20 years of experience as a critical care Registered Respiratory Therapist and 15 years in higher education. She currently serves as Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at Polk State College, where she leads initiatives in curriculum development, accreditation, faculty mentorship, and student success.

Dr. Kent-Smith holds degrees from Florida A&M University (B.S. in Cardiopulmonary Science), the University of Phoenix (M.H.A. with a minor in Adult Education), and Florida State University (Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies). She actively contributes to professional and faith-based communities through leadership roles, including Associate Director of Region 6 for the Florida Society for Respiratory Care (FSRC), and memberships in the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) and the Association of Florida Colleges (AFC). She also speaks regularly at Christian women’s enrichment programs.

Passionate about mentorship and community service, she participates in initiatives such as Meals on Wheels, youth ministry, and women’s mentorship. Dr. Kent-Smith believes that combining spiritual and academic education with compassion can drive meaningful changes in healthcare and improve well-being within our communities.