As IEM’s Director of Affordable Housing and HUD Technical Assistance Services, Dr. Debra Smith is crucial in managing disaster recovery programs. She has served as the Program Manager for the Virginia Mortgage Relief Program, a significant initiative with a budget of $258 million, and the $1.9 billion New Jersey Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, Elevation, and Mitigation Program, demonstrating her expertise in handling large-scale, high-impact projects.

With nearly 30 years of diverse experience in program management, Debra has a proven track record of leading multi-million dollar federally funded programs across multiple states, including Virginia, New Jersey, Mississippi, and Minnesota. Her expertise extends to administering programs for New York and numerous nonprofit organizations, showcasing her adaptability and comprehensive understanding of program dynamics across different sectors.

Previously, Debra managed HIV/AIDS policy and legislation for Minnesota. Her accomplishments include authoring a $3.2 million federal grant application for the Ryan White Title II/ADAP HIV healthcare program and effectively managing the program’s compliance and reporting activities. This experience underpins her ability to navigate complex healthcare policies and enhance public health initiatives.

Debra is also recognized for her advocacy work for individuals affected by HIV and those with developmental disabilities. Her experience includes developing and managing two Individual Education Plan training programs for Arc Greater Twin Cities, highlighting her dedication to community service and program development. This aspect of her career reflects her commitment to addressing diverse community needs and her ability to create impactful programs.

Debra holds a bachelor’s degree from Tougaloo College, a master’s degree from Belhaven College, and a doctorate from Walden University. Her extensive consultation work complements her academic prowess. She has served on numerous proposal review committees for federal agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Office of Minority Health, and the Health Resources and Services Administration. This blend of academic excellence and practical consultancy experience positions Debra as a leading expert in her field, capable of steering large-scale programs toward success.