This Pride Month, we’re spotlighting our RYSE LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group leaders and the incredible work they have coordinated thus far. Read our interview with Zirka Smith, division administrator in the Division of Infectious Diseases, below.
Visit the Department of Medicine RYSE Twitter page to view the original post.
Can you share more about your administrative role in the department?
“As the administrator in the Division of Infectious Diseases, I am in a ‘sweet spot’ in my career that bridges my passion for public health and healthcare. Every day, I get to be involved in elevating bench science, implementation science, and epidemiology, and translate that to operational success.”
What do you like most about working in the Division of Infectious Diseases?
“I love the diversity within our division – both the people we work with and the patients we serve. Being a part of Emory’s ID mission brings me closer to the community in ways that make me want to be a better leader and further improve access to care.”
How do you RYSE with Pride? (Represent, Support, and Elevate the LGBTQIA+ community in the DOM)
“I am the administrative lead of the LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group. I know how important it is for me to see diversity and representation in leadership. I have been with my wife for 12 years and we have two beautiful children. Through our combined experiences, we have found that representation is really important to help empower diverse individuals in their own successes. My goal on this council is to be a face, a voice, a listener, and a mentor to whoever I can assist. I further want to promote our LGBTQIA+ diversity to make Emory a destination for learners, employees, and patients.”
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