George R. Smith, Jr. is a dedicated life member of Iota Phi Theta® Fraternity, Incorporated, having served at the local, regional, and national levels. His multifaceted career encompasses academia, research, non-profit management, and community engagement, all centered on improving health outcomes for marginalized and underserved populations.

As an associate professor in the Department of Public Health and Health Information Administration at Chicago State University, he is deeply committed to addressing racial health disparities. His research explores the influence of spirituality and religious beliefs on health behaviors and outcomes, socio-cultural determinants of health, and maternal and child health, with a focus on adolescent African American males and the role of paternal involvement. He is dedicated to increasing African American representation in the health sciences and actively supports students seeking doctoral degrees.

Outside his involvement within Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated, George is active in numerous civic, religious, and philanthropic associations and societies. He holds membership within the Delta Omega Honorary Society in Public Health, Sigma Beta Delta International Honor Society in Business, Management, and Administration, and the Order of Omega. A Chicago native, Dr. Smith earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology, a Master of Public Health, and a Doctor of Education.