Election Day: November 3, 2026|Join the movement today

Meet Your Candidate

Dr. Mary Smith

A lifetime of service. A vision for the future. The leadership Lauderhill deserves.

Dr. Mary Smith - Candidate for Lauderhill City Commissioner

A Leader Born to Serve

Dr. Mary Smith has dedicated her life to making Lauderhill a better place for all its residents. Born and raised in South Florida, she moved to Lauderhill over three decades ago and immediately became involved in community service.

Her career in public service began at the grassroots level, volunteering with local nonprofits and neighborhood associations. This hands-on experience gave her a deep understanding of the challenges facing working families in our community.

After earning her doctorate in Public Administration, Dr. Smith served as Director of Community Programs for Broward County, where she oversaw initiatives that helped thousands of families access essential services. Her innovative approach to youth development led to the creation of the Lauderhill Youth Leadership Initiative, which has mentored over 500 young people.

Now, Dr. Smith is ready to take her experience and vision to the next level as your City Commissioner. She believes that with strong leadership and community collaboration, Lauderhill can become a model city for the entire state.

My Mission

Why I'm Running

“I'm running for City Commissioner because I believe Lauderhill is at a critical moment. We have the opportunity to build on our strengths while addressing the challenges that have held us back.”

“Our city deserves leadership that listens, acts, and delivers results. Too often, residents feel unheard by their elected officials. I want to change that. I will be a commissioner who is accessible, accountable, and always working for you.”

“Together, we can create safer neighborhoods, bring good jobs to our community, improve our infrastructure, and ensure every young person has the opportunity to succeed. This is our moment to make history.”

— Dr. Mary Smith, Candidate for Lauderhill City Commissioner Seat 4

Journey

A Lifetime of Service

Key milestones in Dr. Smith's career of public service and community leadership.

1990

Settled in Lauderhill

Moved to Lauderhill with her family and became actively involved in community organizations.

1998

Community Program Director

Appointed Director of Community Programs for Broward County, overseeing youth and family services.

2005

Earned Doctorate

Completed her Doctorate in Public Administration from Florida Atlantic University.

2010

Founded Youth Initiative

Established the Lauderhill Youth Leadership Initiative, mentoring over 500 young people.

2018

Community Service Award

Received the Lauderhill Distinguished Community Service Award for her decades of dedication.

2026

Running for Commissioner

Announced candidacy for City Commissioner Seat 4 to bring her vision to the next level.

Credentials

Experience & Qualifications

The education, experience, and recognition that make Dr. Smith uniquely qualified to serve.

Education

  • Doctorate in Public Administration, Florida Atlantic University
  • Master of Public Policy, University of Miami
  • Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Florida State University

Professional Experience

  • Director of Community Programs, Broward County (10 years)
  • Senior Policy Advisor, City of Lauderhill
  • Executive Director, Lauderhill Community Foundation

Recognition

  • Lauderhill Distinguished Community Service Award (2018)
  • Broward County Public Servant of the Year (2015)
  • Florida Community Leadership Award (2012)

Community Involvement

  • Founder, Lauderhill Youth Leadership Initiative
  • Board Member, Lauderhill Chamber of Commerce
  • Volunteer, Habitat for Humanity Broward

Principles

Core Values

The guiding principles that shape Dr. Smith's approach to leadership and public service.

I

Integrity

Honest leadership that puts the community's interests first, always.

S

Service

A lifelong commitment to serving others and making a positive impact.

T

Transparency

Open government and clear communication that keeps residents informed and empowered.

U

Unity

Bringing all residents together to build a stronger, more inclusive Lauderhill.

Ready to Join Our Movement?

Help us bring experienced, dedicated leadership to Lauderhill City Commission.