Karina Gonzales-Smith, MPH

Alaska Center for Rural Health and Health Workforce
907-786-6589
karina.uaa@alaska.edu
Biography
Karina has worked in higher education for over 16 years spanning roles in communications, teaching, faculty coordination, student success, and leadership support. Her passion for education began early after moving from the Philippines to Alaska and learning English. Since then, Karina has continued to move from one classroom to another—on campus, online, and overseas—as both a student and an instructor. She holds a master’s degree in public health and a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and psychology. She remains an active learner today and is currently pursuing additional graduate education. Before joining ACRH-HW, Karina worked for the Alaska Department of Health managing statewide behavioral health initiatives.
When not busy with her young son and corgis, Karina enjoys eating, reading, befriending animals, making her family laugh, and traveling to places she has read about.
Duties & Responsibilities
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Management of continuing education programs
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Direction of accreditation efforts
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Coordination of outreach activities
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Development of partnerships with regional AHECs and statewide stakeholders






