Creea Smith Dream’s Big in STEM

By Ivan Sanchez& NASHVILLE, TN — Nashville native Creea Shannon Smith is not only a second-year Ph.D. student at Vanderbilt University specializing in Biomedical Informatics but also a passionate advocate for diversity and empowerment in STEM fields. Smith’s journey into the world of academia and community advocacy has been driven by a profound interest in the intersections of science, technology, and community empowerment. Smith’s recent internship at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy underscores her commitment to leveraging data science and Artificial Intelligence to address societal disparities. “My selection was largely attributed to my educational background and my unwavering commitment to serving underserved communities while championing STEM education,” Smith explains. A pivotal moment in Smith’s journey was the realization of the lack of representation in children’s literature during her interactions with children from underserved elementary schools. This inspired her to pen “STEM Inspires Me,” a children’s book aimed at bridging the gap between STEM education and young minds. Through vibrant storytelling and colorful illustrations, the book introduces readers to a diverse array of STEM professions, inspiring children to dream big and envision themselves in STEM careers. Smith’s dedication to empowering underserved communities extends beyond literature. She is...