Name: Ian K. Smith, M.D.

Age: 33

Company: None

Location: New York City

Tidbit:

Ian Smith is not your traditional physician. He’s worked as a medical correspondent for NBC and published three books -- both nonfiction and fiction. Smith is a columnist for the New York Daily News, Newsweek and Men’s Health. He is also an enthusiastic philanthropist, serving on the boards of numerous organizations including the New York City Mission Society. Credentialed by the country’s top universities, he earned a bachelor’s from Harvard, a master’s from Columbia and a medical degree from the University of Chicago.

Why You Should Care:

In his professional career, Smith has kept a close eye on health issues important to all Americans but has done an extraordinary job of compiling, distilling and translating data particularly crucial to African Americans. In addition, he has managed to blend his affection for the arts and literature, his striking looks and his rigorous science and medical training to create an award-winning career and media presence. All the while, he has prodded the public to think seriously and pro-actively about its most precious asset -- health. Whether you’ve seen his reports on NBC’s Nightly News, or read his columns in Men’s Health, the New York Daily News or Newsweek, his entire body of work emphasizes concise and clear guidance for all health concerns.

In 2001, Smith published his first two books, 'Dr. Ian Smith’s Guide to Medical Websites,' a comprehensive reference for finding the best medical information online, and 'The Take-Control Diet,' a guidebook for creating an effective, personalized diet plan. Last year, he broke new ground publishing his first novel, 'The Blackbird Papers.' Drawing on his experience in the Ivy League, Smith created a mystery so thrilling, it prompted one reviewer to ask, "Is this guy a doctor or a writer?"

In addition to his work in medical reporting and his accomplishments as an author, Smith serves on the boards of the New York City Mission Society, the Cancer Research Foundation of America, the American Council on Exercise and Building With Books.

About the Author
Ayeko Vinton is a teacher, web developer and freelance writer living in Boston.