The Department of Medicine is the largest department at Emory University and functions with the committed service of our administrative staff — most notably, our division administrators. In this series, we get to know the talented individuals who manage the day-to-day operations of our ten department divisions.
Read our interview with Zirka Smith, MPH, DrPH, administrator for the Division of Infectious Diseases. Smith shares how her career path led to the DOM, what she enjoys about life in Atlanta, and more!
How did your career path lead you to the DOM?
I was drawn to the Department of Medicine because of clinical and basic science discoveries, as well as the clinical divisions that support Emory, Grady, and VA patient care. I was most interested in opportunities to become involved in projects and programs within the DOM to help bridge the gap between public health, research, and health care.
What is the most surprising thing about being an administrator?
It’s not surprising, but I love the interaction I have each day with faculty and staff. My favorite thing about this role is building relationships and learning about the discoveries and clinical advancements within infectious diseases. I enjoy being a part of the team and being the go-to for problem solving. Working with the division continues to open my eyes to opportunities to help promote and operationalize the successes that lead to the best education, research, and patient care.
Is there a specific division project or initiative that you’re excited about?
Most recently, my involvement in Emory’s Monoclonal Antibody (mAB) COVID-19 therapeutic clinic has been incredibly rewarding. What’s so great about this is that the division was involved in several iterations of the research of this type of treatment for COVID-19 to reduce disease severity. After the EUA was released, Emory Healthcare became a site to administer mABs as a treatment option for mild to moderate COVID-19 illness. I was able to help operationalize this clinic for EHC, working together with a dynamic and diverse group of clinicians and providers. Additionally, the team and I published a peer-reviewed paper to highlight our successes of mAB treatment to reduce severe outcomes in our COVID-positive outpatient population.
What is the best career advice you’ve received?
Listen and empower.
What do you enjoy most about living in ATL?
The delicious variety of food, ATL UTD soccer, the proximity to great hiking/adventures, and the ease of being near a big airport (when it is safe to travel).
What is something most people wouldn’t know about you?
I have a second degree black belt in karate.
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