New Deputy Director of Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Brings Decades of Experience and Expertise

Dr. Martha Smith has recently been appointed as the Deputy Director at Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System. Prior to her new role, she held the position of Assistant Medical Center Director at Overton Brooks VA Medical Center in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Before joining the Veterans Health Administration, Dr. Smith served as a commissioned officer in the United States Army for seven years, followed by two years in the Army Reserves. Her military assignments included roles in Seoul, South Korea and training and research at Joint Base Lewis McChord near Tacoma, Washington.

Dr. Smith is a Registered Dietitian with over 33 years of experience in allied healthcare and direct practice. She holds a Doctor of Educational Leadership (EdD) from Eastern Michigan University, a Master of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from the same institution, and a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from Michigan State University. She is also a respected speaker and has been published in multiple peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Smith is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE).

Outside of work, Dr. Smith enjoys traveling, swimming, playing the French horn and spending time with her seven grown children and five grandchildren.