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College of Human Medicine

Smith-King (’03) Receives NAACP Health Equity Award

Dr. Candace Smith-King headshot.In recognition of her health equity work, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine alumna Candace Smith-King, MD (’03) has received the 2022 Health Equity Award from the Greater Grand Rapids National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

The Health Equity Award is given to those advancing affordable, equitable health care for all people, and recognizes individuals who invest in communities and local organizations. Dr. Smith-King was awarded at the Grand Rapids NAACP’s 56th annual Freedom Fund Gala on October 21, 2022.

Dr. Smith-King is vice president of academic affairs at Corewell Health West and is a board-certified pediatrician. She also serves as designated institutional official and vice president of academic affairs and is currently an assistant professor of pediatrics and human development at the College of Human Medicine. She is former director of the pediatric residency program at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital from 2012 through 2018.

“It is an honor to be recognized by the NAACP with such a meaningful award,” Dr. Smith-King said. “Health equity work has been a natural continuation of my education at Michigan State and continues through an ongoing commitment to the many diverse communities across the state…we are truly serving all people.”

Dr. Smith-King has worked diligently to support College of Human Medicine students and residents, teaching within the academic general pediatrics practice at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital and forming the Resident Diversity Council. Dr. Smith-King partnered with Assistant Dean for Diversity and Cultural Initiatives Dr. Lisa Lowery to establish the council, which works to increase diversity of sponsored residency and fellowship training programs, and to ensure the programs are representative of the diverse populations they serve.

In addition, Dr. Smith-King secured funding in 2020 for the Health Equity and Leadership Scholars program which aims to diversify the physician workforce, and pairs members of the Student National Medical Association college chapter with experienced mentors.